Nepal’s Ministry of Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation is taking a proactive approach to revitalizing the country’s aviation sector, signaling a commitment to addressing longstanding issues and enhancing the overall travel experience. Minister Badri Prasad Pandey, during a recent press conference outlining the ministry’s 100-day achievements, emphasized the government’s dedication to transforming the airlines sector.
One of the key initiatives involves the formation of a special committee tasked with identifying and resolving the challenges faced by Nepal Airlines. This move aims to ensure greater stability and reliability in air travel services, providing passengers with a more dependable and enjoyable experience. Additionally, the ministry is working towards the restructuring of the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) into a dual-function entity, serving as both a regulatory body and a service provider. This transformation is expected to streamline processes and improve efficiency within the aviation ecosystem.
The ministry is also focused on attracting more international airlines to Nepal by offering attractive incentives to carriers operating from Gautam Buddha International Airport and Pokhara Regional International Airport. This strategy has already yielded positive results, with Jazeera Airways and Fly Dubai poised to launch new international flights in November. Furthermore, the ministry is actively revising bilateral air service agreements with France and initiating discussions with Indonesia to expand connectivity and enhance tourism potential.
In a bid to learn from past incidents and ensure the highest safety standards, the ministry has launched a comprehensive investigation into the crash of Saurya Airlines. The findings of this investigation will be used to implement critical safety recommendations and enhance the overall safety of Nepali airspace.
The ministry is also taking proactive steps to strengthen tourism regulations and promote responsible travel. The Tourism Bill, along with amendments to the Casino Regulations and Mountaineering Regulations, have been submitted to the Cabinet for approval. These measures aim to modernize the regulatory framework, ensure compliance with international standards, and protect Nepal’s natural and cultural heritage. To further enhance tourism opportunities, the ministry has opened 57 new mountains for climbing, offering adventurers and mountaineers access to even more breathtaking peaks. To streamline the process and improve accessibility, the ministry has also enhanced online services for climbing permits and hotel management. These initiatives are aimed at making it easier for tourists and climbers to plan and enjoy their adventures in Nepal.
The initiatives outlined by the Ministry of Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation demonstrate a clear vision for the future of Nepal’s aviation sector. These ambitious plans are expected to contribute significantly to the country’s economic growth, promote tourism, and enhance its position as a regional aviation hub.