KATHMANDU, Oct 15: The Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) has moved forward with plans to introduce a satellite-based navigation and landing procedure at Pokhara International Airport to reduce flight disruptions, diversions and cancellations caused by adverse weather and poor visibility.
CAAN has completed a preliminary technical study for implementing Required Navigation Performance Authorization Required (RNP-AR), an advanced approach procedure designed to improve aircraft navigation and landing capabilities.
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Pokhara Airport currently relies on radio-based navigation and landing systems. Its geographical location and surrounding hills pose challenges to flight operations during adverse weather and low visibility.
Following the preliminary study, CAAN will proceed with detailed procedure design, technical validation, safety assessments and regulatory approvals before implementing the system.
Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation Minister Khadak Raj Paudel said the initiative would be an important step towards making air services in Pokhara safer, more reliable and regular.
CAAN expects the new system to help reduce diversions, go-arounds and cancellations, improving flight operations during challenging weather conditions.