Kathmandu- The Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) has imposed  ban on the import of Airbus helicopters, citing concerns over safety and the lack of technical assistance from the European aerospace corporation. The decision follows a series of incidents involving Airbus helicopters in Nepal.

Currently, Airbus dominates the Nepalese helicopter market, with most aviation companies operating its helicopters. However, CAAN has announced that it will no longer approve requests for importing Airbus helicopters. In line with this decision, the CAAN  has already denied Mountain Air's application to import an Airbus chopper.

Airbus holds a significant share in Nepal’s aviation sector.  Apart from regular domestic flights, many airline and helicopter companies that operate international flights rely on Airbus aircraft. Despite this, Nepalese airlines remain banned from flying in European airspace due to safety concerns raised by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). The EU has maintained the blacklist for over a decade, showing no intent to lift the restriction, despite Nepalese airlines primarily using European-manufactured aircraft.

The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) had previously blacklisted Nepal due to safety concerns related to helicopter crashes, though the ban was later lifted following improvements in air safety.

Airbus is neglecting a detailed technical assessment of its helicopters' performance and safety in Nepal’s challenging terrain. Many accuse the company of failing to provide adequate support despite the high number of Airbus helicopters operating in the country and the frequency of accidents.

In response, CAAN has extended its restrictions beyond just helicopter imports. The CAAN has also revoked the permits of European companies providing aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services in Nepal. Additionally, CAAN is conducting a study on aircraft with engines below 3,000 horsepower and is considering a gradual ban on their import.

Meanwhile, helicopters from American manufacturer Bell remain unaffected by the ban. Simrik Air currently operates Bell helicopters in Nepal, and with CAAN’s new decision, an increase in Bell helicopter imports is anticipated.