KATHMANDU: The Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) has begun the process of introducing a satellite-based approach procedure at Pokhara International Airport, which is expected to reduce flight diversions and cancellations during adverse weather and low visibility.

CAAN said it had completed a preliminary study of the Required Navigation Performance–Authorization Required (RNP-AR) approach procedure and was moving ahead with the technical work required for implementation.

Pokhara airport currently operates approach procedures based on VOR/DME and the Instrument Landing System (ILS). Its geographical location and surrounding hills, along with technical and operational limitations, pose challenges to flight operations during poor weather and reduced visibility, according to CAAN.

The proposed procedure could lower the minimum visibility requirements for aircraft approaches, potentially reducing flight diversions, missed approaches and cancellations. However, implementation will require detailed procedure design, validation, safety assessments and regulatory approval.

Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation Khadak Raj Paudel said the initiative was expected to reduce flight disruptions caused by adverse weather and low visibility.

"This is an important step towards making air services in Pokhara safer, more regular and more reliable," Paudel said.

CAAN spokesperson Bikram Raj Gautam said the authority was committed to developing and implementing modern air navigation systems to improve the safety, regularity and efficiency of air transport.

The authority has not announced a timeline for implementation of the RNP-AR procedure.