Kathmandu, Feb 9: Four new helicopter companies are in the process of entering Nepal’s aviation sector, according to the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN). With the growing use of helicopters, increasing interest in mountaineering, and rising enthusiasm in the aviation business, the companies are seeking approval to operate air services.
According to a CAAN official, Heli Air Nepal, Sagarmatha Air, Gaganchumbi Air, and Sumedha Air have submitted detailed proposals to the authority for an Air Operator Certificate (AOC). “Out of the five required stages for issuing an operating certificate to helicopter companies, CAAN is currently reviewing the proposals,” he said. Following the proposal review, the CAAN will begin evaluating documents related to other key requirements necessary for conducting commercial air transport operations.
CAAN issues operating certificates based on criteria such as the company’s ability to conduct safe and efficient flight operations, availability of skilled technical manpower, equipment, and training standards.
Meanwhile, Daphe Air has also applied for permission to obtain an AOC in line with its business strategy to operate domestic and international flights by introducing a 72-seat ATR aircraft.
At present, companies seeking approval to operate new helicopters or aircraft are required to either possess at least three aircraft or submit a plan to increase the fleet to five aircraft within five years, or ensure a merger arrangement, as per CAAN regulations.
According to the authority, the use of helicopters has increased significantly in recent times, particularly in mountainous regions, for tourism activities, emergency rescue operations, commercial flights, medical services, and cargo transportation. Currently, around 40 helicopters operated by 12 companies are in service in Nepal. Likewise, seven domestic airlines are providing air services to accessible as well as remote destinations within the country.
30 airlines from 15 countries on international routes
CAAN further reported that a total of 30 airlines from Nepal and 15 other countries are currently operating flights from Nepal to 28 international destinations. These include eight destinations in South Asia, seven in the Middle East, four in Southeast Asia, eight in East Asia, and one in Europe.
Since Nepal signed its first air service agreement with India in 1964, the country has established international air service agreements with 42 countries to date. #nepal #airlines #CAAN
