Kathmandu, Nepal –  Himalaya Airlines welcomed a distinguished delegation representing the The United Nations Secretariat department responsible for the rights of older persons (OHCHR) and the International Aviation Innovation Organization & the Norm Airlift Resources Development Organization (IAIO-NARDO) on July 24, 2026.

The visiting delegation included Dr. Chitralekha Massey, Chief of Rights of Older Persons, OHCHR; Mr. Chai Shuai of Director of UNOG and EU Affairs, IAIO-NARDO; and Mr. Chen Kejian, Officer for the Rights of Older Persons, UN Secretariat.

The visit brought together the delegation and representatives of Himalaya Airlines for a meaningful exchange on age-inclusive, accessible and dignified air travel, contributing to a broader global initiative focused on safeguarding the rights, dignity and agency of older persons within the aviation sector.

During the interaction, Himalaya Airlines shared its experiences and practices related to passenger care and service delivery, with discussions focusing on how the aviation industry can continue to strengthen accessibility and create a more inclusive travel experience for older passengers.

Dr. Chitralekha Massey also shared international perspectives, experiences and practices related to the rights and needs of older persons. She highlighted the importance of continued knowledge exchange and collaboration in promoting age-inclusive approaches and conveyed the delegation’s readiness to share its expertise, knowledge and experience to support greater awareness and understanding of inclusive practices within the aviation sector.
The interaction provided an opportunity for both sides to exchange valuable perspectives and explore how human rights-based, age-inclusive and accessible approaches can contribute towards an aviation ecosystem where older travellers are able to travel with greater dignity, confidence and independence.

Addressing the delegation, Mr. Vijay Shrestha, Vice President – Administration, Himalaya Airlines, stated: “At Himalaya Airlines, we believe that air travel should be accessible, respectful and dignified for every passenger, regardless of age. It was a privilege to welcome the distinguished delegation and exchange perspectives on how the aviation industry can become more inclusive and responsive to the needs of older persons. We value this opportunity to share our experiences, learn from this important global dialogue and contribute towards creating more inclusive sky for everyone.”

Himalaya Airlines appreciates the meaningful exchange with the distinguished delegation and remains committed to continuous learning, knowledge-sharing and collaboration that contribute towards a more inclusive, accessible and people-centeric future for air travel.