Yeti Airlines

Yeti Airlines has established itself as a premier domestic carrier in Nepal, bridging the gap between the remote Himalayas and the country's bustling urban centers. Founded in 1998, the airline has grown to become a vital part of the nation's transport infrastructure, known for its commitment to punctuality, comfort, and authentic Nepalese hospitality. Travelers looking to explore the scenic beauty of Pokhara or the cultural heritage of the Terai plains often choose Yeti Airlines for its reliable service and convenient flight schedules.

Beyond its flight operations, the company is a pioneer in environmental sustainability within the aviation sector. Yeti Airlines holds the distinction of being the first carbon-neutral airline in South Asia, actively participating in reforestation and community support projects. With a modern fleet and a focus on operational excellence, the airline ensures that every journey through the skies of Nepal is safe, efficient, and memorable.

Features and Advantages:

• Modern Fleet: The airline operates a fleet of ATR 72-500 aircraft, which are renowned for their reliability, fuel efficiency, and suitability for Nepal's diverse terrain and weather conditions.
• Extensive Connectivity: Yeti Airlines covers a wide network of domestic destinations, including frequent flights to key cities like Janakpur, Bhadrapur, and Nepalganj, facilitating seamless travel across the country.
• Environmental Stewardship: As a leader in eco-friendly practices, the airline integrates sustainability into its core values, continuously working to reduce its carbon footprint.
• Mountain Flights: One of the airline's most popular offerings is the "Everest Express," a one-hour mountain flight that provides passengers with breathtaking panoramic views of Mount Everest and the high Himalayas.
• Safety Focus: The carrier maintains high safety standards with rigorous maintenance protocols and experienced flight crews, ensuring passenger well-being is the top priority.

Contact Information for Yeti Airlines

For travelers in the United Arab Emirates planning their domestic journeys within Nepal, Yeti Airlines offers centralized support primarily from their headquarters in Kathmandu. As the airline operates exclusively within Nepal, there are currently no dedicated local offices or call centers based directly in the UAE. Passengers are encouraged to use the airline's international digital channels and support lines for all inquiries and bookings.

Official Website

Travelers can manage bookings, check flight schedules, and find the most up-to-date information on the official website:

• Website: https://www.yetiairlines.com

Customer Service & Booking

Please note that the phone numbers below are international lines based in Nepal. Standard international calling rates from the United Arab Emirates will apply.

• Call Center / Reservations: +977 1 5970024
• Alternative Phone: +977 1 5366885
• Email Inquiries: reservations@yetiairlines.com
• Customer Care Email: customer-care@yetiairlines.com
• Mobile App: Available as "Yeti Airlines" on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.

Social Media

For quick updates and general interaction, you can reach out via their official social media profiles:

• Facebook: Yeti Airlines
• Instagram: @yetiairlines
• X (Twitter): @flyyeti

Office Locations

Since there is no physical branch in the United Arab Emirates, all administrative matters are handled through the main office in Nepal.

• Headquarters Address: Yeti Airlines Pvt. Ltd., Tilganga, Kathmandu, Nepal.
• Airport Office: Tribhuvan International Airport, Domestic Terminal, Kathmandu.

Support Availability

The reservation center typically operates during standard business hours in Nepal Time (NPT). It is recommended to contact them via email for non-urgent matters or use the mobile app for immediate booking management.

Baggage Information

Traveling with Yeti Airlines across the scenic landscapes of Nepal requires a bit of planning regarding your luggage. As the airline operates domestic flights using compact aircraft like the ATR 72, baggage allowances are strictly regulated to ensure safety and weight balance. Whether you are flying from the hub in Kathmandu to the mountains or the plains, understanding these policies will help ensure a smooth journey.

Carry-On Baggage

Passengers are generally permitted to bring one piece of hand luggage into the cabin. Due to the limited overhead bin space on regional aircraft, this allowance is strictly monitored.

• Weight Limit: Typically up to 5 kg per passenger.
• Dimensions: The bag must be small enough to fit under the seat in front of you or in the overhead compartment (approximate maximum dimensions: 12" x 6" x 6").
• Personal Items: In addition to the main carry-on, you may carry a small personal item such as a handbag, laptop bag, or camera case.

Checked Baggage Limits

Your checked baggage allowance with Yeti Airlines depends largely on the fare class you have purchased. The airline uses a weight concept, meaning you can check in multiple bags as long as the total weight does not exceed your limit.

• Standard/Full Fare: usually allows for 20 kg to 25 kg of checked luggage.
• Discount/Saver Fare: often includes a lower limit, typically ranging from 10 kg to 15 kg.
• Infants: Passengers traveling with infants generally receive a small additional baggage allowance, often around 10 kg, though this should be verified at the time of booking.

Always check your specific ticket confirmation for the exact weight allowance, as it can vary by route and seasonal promotions.

Excess Baggage Fees

If your luggage exceeds the free allowance specified on your ticket, excess baggage fees will apply. These fees are calculated on a per-kilogram basis and must be paid at the airport check-in counter before departure. Rates vary depending on the destination sector (e.g., a flight to Pokhara may have a different rate than a longer flight). It is highly recommended to purchase extra baggage weight in advance if you know you will be carrying more than the limit.

Special Items

Yeti Airlines accommodates special baggage, but specific rules apply:

• Sports Equipment: Items like golf bags, bicycles, or paragliding gear can be transported but are subject to space availability and usually incur an additional handling fee or are counted towards your total weight allowance.
• Musical Instruments: Small instruments can be carried as hand luggage if they fit within the dimensions. Larger instruments must be checked in or, in some cases, may require purchasing an extra seat.
• Fragile Items: It is advisable not to check in fragile or valuable items. If you must, ensure they are packed securely in hard-shell cases, as the airline has limited liability for damage to fragile goods.

Restricted and Prohibited Items

To ensure flight safety, the following items are strictly regulated:

• Power Banks and Batteries: Loose lithium batteries and power banks must be carried in your carry-on baggage only. They are strictly prohibited in checked luggage.
• Lighters and Matches: Generally not allowed in either checked or carry-on baggage on domestic flights, or strictly limited to one small packet on your person depending on current security protocols.
• Dangerous Goods: Explosives, compressed gases, flammable liquids, and toxic substances are completely banned.

Tips for Packing Efficiently

Since domestic flights in Nepal often serve as gateways to trekking adventures, packing smart is essential. Use soft-sided duffel bags or backpacks rather than rigid, oversized suitcases; these are easier to stack in the cargo holds of smaller aircraft. Keep your camera, medications, and travel documents in your hand luggage to keep them safe and accessible during your flight over the Himalayas.

Pet Travel Guide

Yeti Airlines understands that pets are an important part of the family and strives to accommodate them on their journey across the Himalayas. Whether you are relocating or planning a trip from Kathmandu to the scenic plains, the airline provides options to transport your furry companions safely. Passengers are advised to notify the airline at the time of booking, as space for animals on the ATR aircraft is limited and subject to approval.

In Cabin (Carry-on)

Transporting pets in the cabin is generally restricted to small animals that can fit comfortably under the seat without obstructing the aisle. This option is ideal for short hops between cities.

• Carrier Dimensions: The container must be soft-sided and compact, typically not exceeding dimensions like 40×30×20 cm, to fit under the seat in front of you.
• Maximum Weight: The combined weight of the pet and the carrier usually must not exceed 5 kg to 8 kg (verify specific limits with the airline).
• Allowed Pet Types: primarily small dogs, cats, and household birds.
• Limits: Typically, only one pet container is allowed per passenger, and there is a limit on the total number of pets allowed in the cabin per flight.

In Cargo Hold (Checked Baggage)

For larger pets that exceed cabin limits, travel in the cargo hold is the standard method. The hold on Yeti Airlines' fleet is pressurized, ensuring a safe environment for animals.

• Container Requirements: Pets must be housed in an IATA-approved fiber or hard plastic crate that is escape-proof, leak-proof, and well-ventilated.
• Weight and Size: There is no specific weight limit other than the aircraft's structural payload limits, but the crate must allow the animal to stand, turn around, and lie down naturally.
• Temperature: While the hold is pressurized, extreme weather on the tarmac at destinations like Janakpur or Nepalganj can restrict travel. Flights may be rescheduled if temperatures are too hot or too cold.
• Documentation: A liability waiver must be signed at the check-in counter.

As Cargo (Freight)

This option is designed for unaccompanied pets or very large animals that cannot be checked in as baggage due to volume restrictions.

• Requirement: Mandatory for animals traveling without a passenger on the same flight.
• Special Requirements: Requires processing through the cargo terminal rather than the passenger check-in counter.
• Booking Procedure: Must be arranged well in advance through Yeti Airlines' cargo division, ensuring all handling logistics are in place.

Required Documentation

To ensure a smooth departure, ensure you have the following documents ready for inspection at the airport:

• Veterinary Passport: An up-to-date record identifying the pet.
• Health Certificate: A certificate issued by a registered veterinarian stating the animal is fit to fly (usually valid for 7-10 days).
• Vaccination Records: Proof of valid vaccinations, specifically for Rabies and Distemper.
• International Certificates: If connecting to/from an international flight, valid quarantine and export/import permits for Nepal are required.

Service Costs

Pet transport is not included in the free baggage allowance and incurs a separate fee.

• In-cabin fee: Generally charged as a fixed fee or equivalent to a specific amount of excess baggage.
• Cargo hold fee: Typically calculated based on the total weight (pet + crate) multiplied by the current excess baggage rate for the specific route (e.g., Kathmandu to Pokhara).
• Note: Fees are payable at the airport check-in counter.

Preparation Tips

Preparing your pet for the flight helps reduce anxiety and ensures safety:

• Carrier Familiarity: Let your pet spend time in their crate days before the flight to get used to it.
• Feeding: Feed your pet a light meal about 4 hours before departure; avoid feeding right before the flight to prevent nausea.
• Hydration: Ensure the pet is hydrated, and for longer delays, attach a small water dish to the crate door.
• Comfort: Place an absorbent mat or a familiar blanket inside the crate to provide comfort and manage accidents.

Restrictions

Certain restrictions apply to ensure the safety of the animal and passengers:

• Prohibited Breeds: Brachycephalic (snub-nosed) animals like Pugs, Bulldogs, or Persian cats may be restricted due to respiratory risks at high altitudes.
• Prohibited Animals: Wild animals, rodents, and reptiles are generally not permitted on passenger flights.
• Health: Pregnant animals or pets appearing ill, aggressive, or heavily sedated will be refused carriage.
• Exceptions: Service dogs (Guide dogs) accompanying visually or hearing-impaired passengers may travel free of charge in the cabin, provided prior notice is given.

Important: Airline policies regarding live animals are subject to strict regulation and operational changes. It is highly recommended to contact Yeti Airlines directly via phone or email at least 48 hours before your flight to confirm the latest rules and reserve space for your pet.

Loyalty Program: Yeti Airlines Sky Club

Yeti Airlines Sky Club is the premier frequent flyer program in Nepal, designed to reward loyal passengers traveling across the carrier's extensive domestic network. Whether you are a regular commuter or a tourist planning trips between Kathmandu and the Himalayas, this program offers excellent value through accumulated mileage points that can be exchanged for free flights and other privileges.

Membership Structure

The Sky Club program is structured to recognize travelers at every stage of their journey, from their first flight to frequent commuting. Progression through the tiers is based on the mileage points accumulated over a specific period.

• Sky Club Green (Entry Level): Upon registration, members are automatically enrolled in the Green tier (often referred to simply as Sky Club Membership). This entry-level status allows you to start accumulating mileage points on every eligible flight immediately. While it does not typically include extra baggage allowances, it serves as the foundation for earning reward tickets.
• Sky Club Gold (Elite Tier): This status is awarded to frequent travelers who reach a specific mileage threshold. Achieving Gold status unlocks a range of elite benefits designed to enhance comfort, such as priority check-in services and a complimentary extra baggage allowance, making travel smoother for regular passengers.
• Sky Club Diamond (Top Tier): The Diamond card represents the highest status level, reserved for the airline's most loyal customers. Members in this tier enjoy the maximum range of privileges, including higher priority for baggage handling and the most generous baggage allowances available within the program.
• Co-Branded Partnerships: To accelerate point earning, Yeti Airlines has partnered with leading Nepalese financial institutions. Holders of the Global Sky Club Card (with Global IME Bank) or the Kumari Sky Club Card can earn points through banking transactions and everyday spending, in addition to their flight miles.

Earning Miles

Members earn points primarily based on the distance of the sectors flown. The program ensures that every trip contributes towards your next free adventure.

• Route-Based Accrual: Earn points on every flight sector, whether you are flying to the scenic lakeside city of Pokhara, the cultural center of Janakpur, or other regional destinations.
• Fare Efficiency: While all eligible revenue tickets earn points, the accumulation rate may vary slightly based on the fare class purchased.
• Valid Period: Accumulated points generally remain valid for a set period (typically 2 to 3 years), encouraging active participation in the program.

Redeeming Miles

The ultimate goal of the Sky Club is to turn your travel miles into reward tickets, offering tangible savings on future travel.

• Award Flights: Members can redeem their points for free tickets to any destination within the Yeti Airlines network, subject to seat availability.
• Flexibility: The program is known for its flexibility, often allowing members to issue reward tickets for family members or friends, making it a convenient option for planning group trips.

How to Join

Joining the Yeti Airlines Sky Club is free, simple, and open to travelers of all nationalities.

• Digital Registration: The most efficient way to join is through the Yeti Airlines mobile app or official website. Digital registration provides an instant membership number, allowing you to claim miles for upcoming flights immediately.
• Physical Forms: Application forms are also available at airport check-in counters. Travelers can fill one out before their flight to ensure the current trip contributes to their mileage balance.

Onboard Experience and Services

Flying with Yeti Airlines offers a unique domestic travel experience tailored to the short duration of flights within Nepal. As the carrier operates a fleet exclusively comprised of ATR 72-500 turboprop aircraft, the onboard service is designed for efficiency, safety, and comfort. Whether you are traveling for a quick business meeting in Kathmandu or embarking on a holiday to the lakes of Pokhara, passengers can expect a pleasant journey with attentive Nepalese hospitality.

Service Classes

Yeti Airlines operates a single-class configuration (Economy Class) across its entire fleet. There are no separate Business or First Class cabins. However, the service standards are high, ensuring that every passenger receives a comfortable and premium experience relative to the short flight times.

• Economy Class: All passengers are seated in the main cabin. The fare rules generally determine the flexibility of the ticket (refundable vs. non-refundable) and baggage allowance, rather than the physical seat or onboard service.

Seat Configuration and Comfort

The ATR 72-500 aircraft are designed for regional connectivity, offering a cozy and practical cabin environment.

• 2-2 Layout: The cabin features a 2-2 seating configuration. This is a significant advantage for travelers, as it means there are no middle seats. Every passenger enjoys either a window seat with potential mountain views or an aisle seat for easy access.
• Seat Pitch and Width: The seats are standard regional economy seats with adequate legroom for flights that typically last between 20 to 60 minutes. Most aircraft feature modern, ergonomic leather seating.
• Overhead Bins: The overhead compartments are smaller than those on large international jets, suitable for small backpacks or jackets. Larger carry-on items may need to be checked in or placed under the seat.

In-Flight Dining

Despite the short duration of the flights, Yeti Airlines provides complimentary refreshments to enhance the passenger experience.

• Snacks and Beverages: On most flights, passengers are served a selection of complimentary snacks, such as roasted peanuts or cookies, along with a choice of beverages including water, fruit juice, tea, or coffee.
• Short Hops: On extremely short sectors (under 20 minutes), the service may be limited to water and candies due to time constraints.

Entertainment

There are no personal seatback screens or Wi-Fi services available on board, as the flights are brief. However, the airline offers alternative forms of engagement:

• In-Flight Magazine: Passengers can read the airline's exclusive magazine, which features travel stories, destination guides, and information about Nepal's culture and lifestyle.
• Scenic Views: The highlight of flying in Nepal is the window view. Routes passing near the Himalayas offer unparalleled vistas of snow-capped peaks, green hills, and river valleys, serving as the ultimate natural entertainment.

Special Services

Yeti Airlines is committed to making travel accessible for everyone and offers specific services for passengers with special needs.

• Passengers with Reduced Mobility: Wheelchair assistance is available at the airports. However, as the aircraft are boarded via stairs (air stairs), passengers who cannot ascend steps must inform the airline in advance so that manual boarding assistance can be arranged.
• Expectant Mothers: Pregnant women can travel up to 28 weeks of pregnancy without a medical certificate. From 29 to 32 weeks, a doctor's fit-to-fly certificate is mandatory. Travel is generally not permitted beyond 32 weeks for safety reasons.
• Unaccompanied Minors: The airline provides a dedicated service for children traveling alone. Ground staff will escort the child from check-in to the aircraft, and cabin crew will supervise them during the flight until they are handed over to the designated guardian at the destination (e.g., Janakpur or other arrival cities).

Destinations and Route Network

Yeti Airlines operates a comprehensive domestic network centered around its primary hub in Kathmandu, facilitating vital connections across the country. The airline serves as a key link between the capital and major regional centers, flying to popular tourist destinations as well as essential commercial hubs in the Terai plains. This extensive coverage ensures convenient travel options for both international tourists and local commuters.

To ensure a smooth journey with Yeti Airlines, especially when navigating the unique terrain of Nepal, a little preparation goes a long way. Whether you are flying from their main hub in Kathmandu or heading to the scenic lakes of Pokhara, these practical tips will help you maximize your travel experience.

Booking for the Best Fares
While domestic flights in Nepal are relatively affordable, prices can spike during the peak trekking seasons (Spring and Autumn). To secure lower fares, it is advisable to book your tickets at least two to three weeks in advance. Keep an eye on their official website or mobile app for seasonal promotions, especially during local festivals like Dashain and Tihar, when special discounts are often released.

Seat Selection for Mountain Views
One of the biggest highlights of flying within Nepal is the spectacular view of the Himalayas. When booking your seat, consider the direction of your flight to get the best panorama. For instance, if you are flying from Kathmandu to Pokhara, sit on the right-hand side of the aircraft to see the mountain ranges. Conversely, if you are returning to the capital, the left-hand side offers the best views. You can often select your preferred seat during the booking process or at the check-in counter, subject to availability.

Online Check-in and Mobile App
Save time at the airport by utilizing the Yeti Airlines mobile app or website for online check-in. This feature usually opens 24 hours before departure. The app is particularly useful for managing your itinerary, checking flight status in real-time—which is crucial given Nepal's changeable weather—and accessing your e-ticket without needing a printout.

Weather and Travel Insurance
Flights to destinations like Janakpur or Nepalganj can be subject to delays or cancellations due to weather conditions, particularly fog in the winter or heavy rains in the monsoon season. It is highly recommended to purchase comprehensive travel insurance that covers domestic flight disruptions. This ensures you are protected against unexpected changes to your travel plans.

History and Development

Yeti Airlines commenced its journey in May 1998, established with a vision to bridge the geographical challenges of Nepal and connect isolated communities with the capital. Starting operations with a modest fleet of DHC-6 Twin Otter aircraft, the airline initially focused on serving remote mountain airfields. Over the first decade, it rapidly gained a reputation for reliability, becoming a lifeline for both locals and tourists seeking access to the rugged Himalayan terrain.

A significant milestone in the company's history occurred in 2009, marking a strategic restructuring of its operations. To better specialize in different market segments, Yeti Airlines established a subsidiary, Tara Air. This separation allowed Tara Air to take over the Short Take-Off and Landing (STOL) operations to remote airports like Lukla and Jomsom, while Yeti Airlines focused its resources on serving major domestic trunk routes connecting Kathmandu to regional commercial hubs.

The evolution of the fleet has been central to the airline's modernization. Moving on from the smaller Twin Otters, the carrier successfully operated British Aerospace Jetstream 41 aircraft for many years, which enhanced passenger comfort and speed on longer routes. In recent years, the airline completed a major fleet transition by phasing out the Jetstreams in favor of the more efficient and spacious ATR 72-500 turboprops. This upgrade significantly increased seat capacity and reliability on key routes to cities such as Pokhara and Bhadrapur.

Beyond operational growth, Yeti Airlines has distinguished itself as a pioneer in environmental responsibility within the aviation industry. In 2019, it became the first airline in South Asia to achieve Carbon Neutral status. Through partnerships with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and various local initiatives, the company has integrated Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into its core business model, engaging in tree plantation drives and waste management projects in the Everest region.

Today, Yeti Airlines stands as one of Nepal's leading domestic carriers, continuously innovating to improve the passenger experience. With a fully modernized fleet and a strong commitment to safety and sustainability, the airline continues to expand its footprint, offering frequent flights to destinations like Janakpur and Nepalganj while maintaining its heritage of authentic Nepalese service.