KATHMANDU: The Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) has allocated a budget of Rs 31.40 billion for the fiscal year 2082/83. This is down by Rs 2.71 billion compared to the previous fiscal year.

Budget Breakdown (in NPR):

• Total Budget FY 2082/83: Rs 31.40 billion
• Previous FY 2081/82 Budget: Rs 34.12 billion

Capital Expenditure:

• FY 2082/83: Rs 12.39 billion
• FY 2081/82: Rs 11.52 billion

Operational Expenditure:

• FY 2082/83: Rs 6.15 billion
• FY 2081/82: Rs 6.52 billion

Financial Management Allocation: Rs 12.85 billion

According to the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN), the focus this fiscal year is on increasing capital investment while cutting down on operational costs. The authority also stressed the need to revise airport fees and passenger service charges to boost revenue and tackle shrinking financial resources.

CAAN noted that efforts are ongoing to ensure the effective operation of Gautam Buddha International Airport in Bhairahawa and Pokhara International Airport.

This year’s budget prioritizes infrastructure upgrades across several airports. Notably, NPR 10 million each has been allocated for the construction of a new terminal building and control tower at Mahendranagar Airport, along with an additional NPR 20 million for its overall strengthening.

Similarly, NPR 10 million has been earmarked for upgrades at Jumla Airport, along with NPR 40 million for land acquisition. Bharatpur Airport will receive NPR 40 million for expansion and strengthening works. At Simikot Airport, NPR 79 million has been allocated for runway extension and land procurement.