Bill registered to split CAAN

A new bill registered in the House of Representatives aims to remove the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal’s (CAAN) role as a service provider, if passed. This legislation will separate CAAN’s regulatory and service-oriented functions, allowing it to focus solely on oversight and compliance.

According to Minister for Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation Badri Prasad Pandey, CAAN will retain its authority over key regulatory responsibilities, such as granting and revoking aircraft-related permissions, overseeing registration and cancellations, and ensuring personnel qualifications. It will also be responsible for setting and enforcing safety standards for air services.

To manage airport construction, operation, and related services, a separate bill has been proposed. This new legislation, the Nepal Civil Aviation Act 2024, will replace the Civil Aviation Authority Act 1996.

Under this restructuring, CAAN will have the authority to grant licenses and permissions to organizations and service providers operating airlines, aircraft, gliders, ultralights, microline balloons, paragliding, skydiving, and other aerial activities. It will also oversee air navigation services, airport operations, and civil aviation training programs.

Additionally, the bill grants CAAN jurisdiction over aircraft and parts manufacturing, maintenance, import, storage, sale, and distribution. It will regulate commercial flights by foreign airlines in Nepal and oversee international airline operations.

The authority will also have the power to issue ‘type’ certificates for aircraft and grant licenses, certificates, and permits to personnel requiring specialized skills in civil aviation.

Further responsibilities include setting standards for air traffic services, aircraft search and rescue, fire prevention, aviation weather information, and life-saving services. CAAN will also be responsible for installing, operating, repairing, and maintaining aviation communication, air navigation, and surveillance equipment.

Moreover, the authority will enforce international aviation standards and implement recommendations from global conventions and organizations. It will also coordinate and collaborate with international regulatory bodies to ensure compliance with global aviation norms.