Nepal Airlines Corporation finds itself under intense scrutiny as a comprehensive audit reveals critical lapses in aviation security. This audit, conducted by the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal, spans five days and paints a detailed picture of vulnerabilities within the national flag carrier.
European Union Report Raises Concerns The European Union (EU) has publicly expressed concerns about Nepal’s aviation safety, attributing it to the operations of Nepal Airlines Corporation. The EU report indicates that due to these concerns, Nepal remains on the aviation security blacklist. This prompted the regulatory authority to delve into an in-depth audit of the national carrier.
Authority Unearths Weaknesses Post-Audit Sources within the Civil Aviation Authority reveal that the detailed audit has unearthed significant weaknesses in the operations of Nepal Airlines Corporation. These weaknesses extend to various aspects of aviation security, prompting the regulatory body to take decisive action.
Grounding Decision in Times of Crisis In response to the identified vulnerabilities:
The regulatory authority is near to made the critical decision to ground Nepal Airlines Corporation, even in times of crisis. This proactive measure aims to mitigate potential risks associated with the precarious state of the corporation’s aviation security.
Prime Minister and Minister Informed Recognizing the gravity of the situation:
The regulatory authority has promptly informed the Prime Minister and the Minister, preparing them for the possibility of grounding the national flag carrier. The precarious state of the corporation’s aviation security necessitates a proactive and transparent approach.
Government Entity Faces Potential Grounding As a government entity:
The authority acknowledges the need for the Prime Minister and the Minister’s consent before grounding the corporation. This decision underscores the associated risks and the importance of securing approval from the highest levels of government.
Private Aviation Companies Also Under Scrutiny:
The audit, while primarily focused on Nepal Airlines Corporation, reveals that similar issues persist in private aviation companies. However, the authority’s immediate concern is to address the lapses in the national flag carrier, given its critical status in international aviation.
Audit Findings
Flight Operations, Security Management, and Ordinances:
The audit findings highlight weaknesses in various areas, including flight operations, security management systems, and adherence to aircraft manuals. The authority emphasizes that these critical components must be addressed to ensure a robust aviation security framework.
Cargo Flight Security Lapses:
Specifically, the audit reveals lapses in security measures for cargo flights carrying hazardous materials such as batteries and chemicals. The authority notes that necessary protocols and safety standards were not consistently implemented, raising concerns about potential risks associated with such cargo operations.
Training Gaps:
The audit points out gaps in training, particularly the lack of training for relevant staff based on established employee standards. Furthermore, the absence of a Cabin Crew Instructor in twin-engine flights underscores the need to address training deficiencies across different operational aspects.
Safety Management System Shortcomings:
In terms of security management systems, the audit identifies several shortcomings, emphasizing the importance of consistently following approved procedures and ensuring that effective security standards are applied across all operational facets. The authority underscores the need for heightened attention to the risks associated with flights and day-to-day operations.
Aircraft Flight Capability – Meeting Industry Standards:
The corporation’s aircraft flight capability comes under scrutiny, with the audit revealing that it falls short of meeting the necessary standards and levels required in the aviation sector. Efforts to make aircraft flight-worthy are found lacking, with attention being given only during the purchasing process, resulting in considerable time delays.
International Standards for Hangar Operations:
The authority highlights that even the hangar dedicated to aircraft maintenance does not comply with international standards in its operations. This includes issues related to hangar structure, maintenance procedures, and adherence to internationally recognized benchmarks.
EU Report Implicates Nepal Airlines and Shree Airlines:
The EU report not only points fingers at Nepal Airlines Corporation but also implicates Shree Airlines. Both airlines are cited as reasons for Nepal’s continued presence on the aviation security blacklist. The report specifically notes that safety standards were not met in the audits conducted on Nepal Airlines and Shree Airlines.
Authority Seeks Clarification and Decides on Detailed Audit:
In response to the EU report, the regulatory authority sought clarification from the executive chairman of Nepal Airlines Corporation. Simultaneously, a decision was made to conduct a comprehensive audit, indicating the seriousness with which the authority is addressing the concerns raised in the report.
