Nepal mandates stricter airline rules for monsoon safety

Nepal's Civil Aviation Authority (CAAN) has implemented a special monsoon safety directive, "Monsoon Circular 2026," to enhance aviation safety during the upcoming monsoon season. The directive, effective June 15 until the monsoon's end, imposes stricter operating procedures on airlines, pilots, and aviation personnel.

Key provisions include mandatory verification of aircraft technical condition and minimum equipment requirements before each flight. Pilots and flight dispatchers must obtain comprehensive weather information for all routes, destinations, and alternate airports. Helicopter operators face specific requirements to assess mountain valley weather and identify safe landing sites, with all monsoon helicopter flights requiring two pilots, except for medical evacuations.

CAAN has ordered that critical aircraft systems, such as anti-skid systems, weather radar, and warning systems, must be fully operational. Aircraft with defects in these systems will be grounded. Pilots must maintain a minimum distance from severe thunderstorms and are authorized to divert or return if conditions deteriorate. During landings, instrument approaches are prioritized, and go-arounds are mandated if a stable approach isn't maintained.

CAAN information officer Gyanendra Bhul stated the circular aims to reduce human error during adverse weather by strengthening decision-making. "Nepal has experienced many aviation accidents linked to poor weather," Bhul said, adding that the circular provides a legal framework to prioritize safety. The monsoon season presents significant risks in Nepal due to heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, low visibility, and wind shear, particularly challenging for helicopter operations in mountainous terrain.

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The circular provides a legal and operational framework to prioritise passenger and aircraft safety.