In a bid to enhance aviation safety across the country, the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) has announced a series of new regulatory measures for the operation of helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft. The latest directives aim to strengthen flight safety protocols and ensure stricter compliance with risk management practices.
A key component of the new policy is the introduction of an automated electronic system for flight risk assessment and mitigation, specifically targeting helicopter operations. The software application will analyze variables such as weather conditions, pilot experience, flight duration, and geographical terrain to evaluate and reduce safety risks before each flight is authorized.
Under the updated rules, helicopter operators will be required to deploy two pilots for each flight, with the mandate extending to all flights involving designated high-profile passengers as specified by the Government of Nepal. This move is part of broader efforts to align Nepal’s aviation practices with international safety standards.
In addition, CAAN has issued new guidelines concerning aircraft and helicopter operating bases. Effective from June 27, 2022, all airline operators must base their aircraft overnight at designated home airports and commence their first daily flights from these locations. Helicopter companies will also be required to implement the same protocol.
The Civil Aviation Authority has emphasized its zero-tolerance policy toward safety lapses and has instructed all relevant stakeholders to implement the new measures without delay.