The National Flag Carrier, Nepal Airlines Corporation (NAC) has sent its narrow body Airbus A320 aircraft with the callsign 9N-AKW to China for a C-check.
NAC sent the aircraft to China Southern Company on Sunday, as it had been grounded for a month due to very low flying hours.
NAC spokesperson Ramesh Paudel stated that the C-check work has not yet started due to the Chinese New Year.
“As per the agreement with China Southern, the aircraft was sent to China on Sunday. However, we have been informed that work has not yet begun due to the New Year celebrations there,” said spokesperson Paudel.
The C-check is expected to be completed within eight days.
According to the schedule, the 9N-AKW aircraft was supposed to complete its C-check by Mangsir 7 (mid-November). However, delays occurred because NAC did not select a company on time.
A C-check is a detailed inspection and maintenance procedure conducted on an Airbus A320 aircraft approximately every 20–24 months or after a specific number of flight hours, as mandated by the manufacturer and aviation regulatory authorities. This inspection is more intensive than A and B checks, requiring the aircraft to be taken out of service for one to two weeks.
During a C-check, maintenance teams thoroughly examine the aircraft’s fuselage, wings, landing gear, avionics, and structural components for wear, corrosion, or potential issues. Critical systems, including hydraulics, electrical wiring, and flight controls, are tested and repaired if necessary. The aircraft may also undergo software updates and cabin refurbishments to ensure safety and operational efficiency.
Typically performed at an MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul) facility, the C-check ensures the A320 remains airworthy and compliant with aviation safety regulations.
