KATHMANDU: The Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) has called on aviation stakeholders to strengthen safety measures in anticipation of potential disruptions caused by Cyclone Arnab.
In a safety circular, CAAN instructed air service providers, airport operators, airlines and other concerned agencies to remain vigilant as the weather system could bring moderate to heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, strong winds and snowfall in Nepal’s mountainous and high-hill regions.
The authority has urged heightened caution on October 29 and 30, warning that heavy rainfall, strong winds and poor visibility could affect aircraft take-offs and landings, airport operations and runway conditions.
CAAN has also directed air traffic management units to prepare comprehensive flight management plans for adverse weather conditions and coordinate with other aviation agencies as necessary. If weather conditions deteriorate beyond established operational limits, the units must take appropriate measures, including rerouting flights, placing aircraft in holding patterns or making other operational adjustments.
The circular further requires the immediate communication of information about wind shear, severe atmospheric instability and thunderstorms to both arriving and departing aircraft.
In addition, all concerned agencies have been instructed to ensure that essential air navigation and air traffic management infrastructure remains fully operational. This includes backup power supplies and communication systems.
CAAN has also directed stakeholders to promptly report any serious risks, operational disruptions or safety-related incidents through the prescribed channels.
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