Kathmandu, October 16: The Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) has conducted the necessary technical studies and initiated the implementation process for introducing the Required Navigation Performance Authorization Required (RNP-AR) system at Pokhara International Airport.
Currently, flights at the airport operate using VOR/DME and Instrument Landing System (ILS)-based navigation systems. Airport General Manager Jagannath Niraula said the introduction of RNP-AR would allow flights to operate even under conditions of reduced visibility.
According to Niraula, aircraft currently take off and land at Pokhara with a visibility of 3,100 metres. Once the new system is implemented, flights will be possible with visibility as low as 2,000 metres.
“The main advantage of this system is that it enables aircraft to take off and land under low-visibility conditions, reducing problems such as flight cancellations and diversions,” he said.
Niraula said the authority had initiated the process with the aim of bringing the system into operation within the next four months. He added that aircraft would need to be equipped with the necessary technology and pilots would have to undergo appropriate training to operate under the new system.
The system is expected to facilitate both domestic and international flights once it comes into operation. CAAN said the system would be implemented after completing the necessary technical and regulatory procedures.
The introduction of RNP-AR is expected to enhance flight safety, operational regularity, and predictability. It is also expected to minimize disruptions caused by poor visibility and provide passengers with more reliable air services.
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