'Civil aviation should be seen as a national necessity, not a luxury'
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Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation Anil Kumar Sinha has said that civil aviation in Nepal is now not just a means of transportation but a strategic infrastructure directly linked to economic development, tourism, national security and international connectivity.
Addressing the 27th anniversary celebrations of the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal, Minister Sinha clarified that air services have become a lifeline, not a convenience, due to Nepal's geographical situation.
'Due to Nepal's geographical situation, civil aviation has become a way of life. In many places, air services are the only means of healthcare, supply, rescue and relief,' Minister Sinha said, 'That is why civil aviation should not be seen as a luxury, but as a national necessity.'
Minister Sinha mentioned that in the 21st century, the civil aviation sector has become an important pillar linked to the global economy, international relations, tourism, trade, supply chain, information technology and security.
According to him, the post-COVID-19 revival, digital transformation, climate change, carbon emission reduction and regional competition are leading the global aviation sector towards new technologies and innovations.
Stating that Nepal has been adopting the standards, recommendations and practices of the International Civil Aviation Organization, he reminded that the main motto of ICAO is 'Safe Skies and a Sustainable Future for All'.
Minister Sinha, stating that tourism and civil aviation are deeply connected to each other, said that airports and air services are the first and last experience of Nepal for tourists.
He said that safe, quality and punctual air services are indispensable to realize the concept of 'Nepal as a unique tourist destination' put forward by the Tourism Policy 2082.
'Airports are the gateway to the country. Service quality, safety and professional behavior should be our first priority,' said Minister Sinha.
Minister Sinha emphasized the need to accelerate the use of digital air traffic management, modern navigation systems and security surveillance technology. He was of the opinion that sustainable and safe aviation is not possible without skilled human resources, ethics, transparency, innovation and good governance.
He mentioned that strategic reforms are needed to resolve the conflict of interest between regulators and service providers in the civil aviation sector. In the same context, he pointed out the need to establish a permanent, independent and empowered Aircraft Accident Investigation Commission for an impartial and technical investigation of aircraft accidents.
Minister Sinha said that he is fully committed to the internal strengthening, institutional development and long-term stability of the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal. He mentioned that for this, collaboration between the concerned agencies, the private sector, employees and all stakeholders is necessary.
