Miss World contest investor plans to start UK airline

Nepal’s Gurung family, who became investors in Miss World last autumn, has launched Himalaya Jet, with ambitions to begin flights from London in September.

The venture is headed by Dipendra Gurung and lists an office at Heathrow Terminal 2. The proposed carrier plans to launch flights from London and Paris to Mumbai, Delhi and Kathmandu. Sydney is also listed as a potential destination.

Himalaya Air’s website says: “Our direct flights…will be an estimated 30% cheaper than other traditional airlines’ fare.” The site said “statutory consultation” was now complete. 

The Gurung family recently visited the Boeing factory in Seattle and is said to have had talks over leasing two Boeing 787s.

Dipendra Gurung is listed as the airline’s sole director. Companies House shows the venture was incorporated in September with 800 million shares with a nominal value of £1.6 billion.

Himalaya Jet follows two other Indian start-ups, Hans Airways, which plans to serve Birmingham-Amritsar and Stansted-based Flypop, which has secured its first aircraft. Both are aiming to begin scheduled flights this year.

TTG has contacted Himalaya Air for further information.