Nepal civil aviation reform bills up for public feedback

Nepal's government is moving to restructure its civil aviation sector by dividing the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) into two distinct bodies. Draft legislation proposes creating an Air Service Authority of Nepal to manage airports and air navigation, while a separate Civil Aviation Authority will handle regulatory oversight. This move aims to enhance aviation safety, combat corruption, and improve public services, addressing criticisms from the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) regarding conflicts of interest.

The proposed legislation, now open for public feedback, is a significant step in institutional reform for Nepal's aviation industry. Officials expect the bills to be fast-tracked through Parliament after incorporating public comments and securing approval from the finance and law ministries, and the Cabinet. This initiative is part of a larger government plan to introduce 151 bills in the upcoming fiscal year, signaling a commitment to legislative acceleration.

The separation of regulatory functions from operational and commercial activities is a key objective. The new Air Service Authority would be responsible for airport development, modernization, environmental sustainability, and service delivery. This reform addresses long-standing concerns about CAAN's dual role, which has drawn criticism for potentially compromising safety and efficiency.

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After collecting public feedback, the draft bills will be sent to the finance and law ministries for their comments before being forwarded to the Cabinet. Following Cabinet approval, they will be registered in Parliament.