Shree Airlines Expands Fleet with Third Bombardier Aircraft in Nepal

Shree Airlines, a newly established fixed-wing airline in Nepal, increased its fleet size to three after receiving another Bombardier CRJ-700 aircraft.

The airline is one of Nepal’s top domestic airlines, established in 1999 by Banwari Lal Mittal. Originally named Air Ananya, it focuses on chartered helicopter services. The airline gained popularity for its reliable and efficient services. It was the largest operator of Mi-17 helicopters in Southeast Asia. 

Then, in 2016, Shree Airlines acquired the Bombardier CRJ aircraft. This marked the airline’s transition and expansion from helicopter services to fixed-wing operation. Shree Airlines aimed to transform the landscape of domestic air travel. This expansion was not only significant for the airline but also for the entire Nepalese aviation industry.

Historically, Buddha Airlines, Yeti Airlines, and Tara Airlines (a subsidiary of Yeti Airlines) dominated Nepal’s aviation sector. Shree Airlines’ entry added much-needed competition to the market. It further helped to improve service quality and provide more convenience to passengers. The new addition of the third Bombardier aircraft will further enhance the airline’s services and establish it as the third-largest domestic carrier in the country. 

Expansion of Shree Airlines’ Fleet

Shree Airlines has become the second Nepal airline to operate Bombardier aircraft after Saurya Airlines. Six routes have been allotted for the airlines: Biratnagar, Bhadrapur, Bhairahawa, Dhangadhi, Nepalgunj, and mountain sightseeing flights. With the addition of the new Bombardier CRJ-700 aircraft, Shree Airlines strives to grow and modernize the airline.

Arrival of the CRJ-700 at Tribhuvan International Airport

On June 23rd this year, the 70-seater Bombardier CRJ-700 aircraft arrived from Europe at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. This newest fleet member has marked a significant milestone in the airline’s expansion. It has also symbolized the airline’s readiness to compete in Nepal’s domestic aviation industry.

Aircraft Registration and Technical Details

The Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) has allocated the Nepalese registration as “9N-AMB” to the CRJ-700 aircraft. The aircraft’s previous registration was “2-VRJD,” and the Manufacturer’s Serial Number (MSN) is 10048. According to the airline officials, it will provide a faster and more comfortable travel experience. The reduced travel time compared to the jet aircraft is also believed to attract more passengers.

Fleet Overview

Shree Airlines has already landed its two Bombardier CRJ-200ER aircraft. Its base was in Kathmandu in April this year, but the commercial operation has not been initiated yet. Currently, the airlines’ fixed-wing fleet consists of:

• 2 Bombardier CRJ-200ER with 50-passenger capacity.
• 2 Bombardier CRJ-700 with 70-passenger capacity.
• 7 9N-AMB Dash 8 Q400 with 68 to 80-passenger capacity.

As of May 2025, Shree Airlines has an 11-aircraft fixed-wing fleet and 8 helicopters. Based on fleet size, it is the second-largest airline after Buddha Airlines. Shree’s diverse fleet has also made it a competitive player in the domestic aviation market. 

Operational Status and Certification

According to Anil Manandhar, Shree Airlines’ institutional manager, both CRJ-200 aircraft are awaiting completion of the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) ‘s required process before they can be deployed for commercial flight. The airlines received a No-Objection Certificate (NOC) from CAAN to acquire the 70-seater CRJ-700 aircraft. However,  the company has not received its Air Operator Certificate (AOC) from CAAN for its newly acquired Bombardier CRJ-700 aircraft. 

Shree Airlines is waiting for the pending regulatory approvals. Once CAAN grants the certification, it plans to initiate commercial flights and operate on all the major domestic routes. The officials believe they can commence operation in the coming months.

Market Impact and Competitive Landscape

Breaking the Duopoly of Yeti and Buddha Air

Buddha and Yeti are the two major airlines with a strong foothold in Nepal’s aviation industry. They have been dominating the industry for years, creating a duopoly and limited competition. Shree Airlines’ entry into the fixed-wing segment has broken the duopoly of Yeti and Buddha. It has introduced itself as a new and worthy competitor that is believed to increase competition. It is expected to have a positive effect and improve services, prices, and the expansion of route options.

Advantages of Jet Aircraft Over Turboprop

There are two major advantages of Bombardier jet aircraft over commonly used turboprop aircraft:

Faster travel time: Using jet aircraft, such as the CRJ series, is expected to significantly reduce travel times on key trunk routes, offering faster alternatives to turboprop services. The reduced travel time will make it a more convenient and appealing option for time-sensitive passengers.

Improved Passenger Experience: Compared to the turboprop, the Bombardier jets have modern technology and ensure smoother flights. Similarly, they have quieter cabins and offer a higher standard of comfort that improves overall customer satisfaction.

Investment and Growth Strategy

Shree Airline said it would spend Rs. 2 billion because its expansion project is expected to shake up the domestic aviation sector, which has seemed to have quietened down recently. The investment reflects the airlines’ long-term vision and strategy for growth. The funds are being allocated towards:

• Fleet acquisition
• Infrastructure development
• Staff training
• Marketing and operational planning

The official routes are yet to be announced, but it is expected to operate on highly demanded routes like:

• Kathmandu – Pokhara
• Kathmandu – Biratnagar
• Kathmandu – Nepalgunj

Conclusion

Shree Airlines is climbing its way up in the domestic air travel industry of Nepal. It has also opened a new chapter in the industry by introducing the new Bombardier CRJ-700, increasing competition, and reshaping the travel experience for all types of travelers. The considerable investment and growth strategy of the Shree Airlines is set to enhance the connectivity in the skies of Nepal.