KATHMANDU: The Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) has suspended Yuvraj Adhikari, the Chairperson of Nepal Airlines Corporation (NAC), from his duties.

The suspension follows an incident where a wide-body aircraft was sent to Italy via Dubai for a C-check without proper authorization. CAAN stated that Chairperson Adhikari has been temporarily suspended for this breach of protocol.

Currently, there are no direct flights from Nepal to Italy.

The aircraft was sent for a C-check without obtaining the necessary permits and completing the procurement process, leading to the immediate suspension of duties.

Along with Adhikari, CAAN has also grounded Operations Manager and Captain Dipu Jwarchan, Captain Maheshman Dangol, and Raman Ghimire.

Additionally, CAMO Manager Gyan Bahadur Kunwar has been suspended.

Last Friday, the NAC management transported the wide-body aircraft to Italy for a C-check via a scheduled flight through Dubai.

Airlines holding an Air Operator Certificate (AOC) from CAAN must follow the Nepal Civil Aviation Authority regulations for regular maintenance and all types of checks on their aircraft.

According to CAAN spokesperson Gyanendra Bhul, the regulations require airlines with an AOC to seek permission from CAAN for major checks, including C-checks and overhauls. Furthermore, the aircraft was sent to an Italian company for the C-check, which CAAN has not approved.

“The company where the aircraft is being repaired must be authorized by CAAN. Additionally, permission must be sought from CAAN before sending the aircraft for a C-check,” said Bhul, adding, “However, the NAC management violated both rules and has already sent the aircraft to Italy.”

CAAN suspended all five individuals for this violation of the Civil Aviation Act.

Spokesperson Bhul shared that an internal committee has been formed by CAAN to further investigate the matter. Further decisions will be made based on the findings of this committee.