Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation Prem Bahadur Ale and European Ambassador Nona Deprez have discussed the issue of lifting the air embargo imposed on Nepal from the EU security list. During the discussion, Minister Ale urged to lift the air embargo imposed on Nepal.

Reminding that Nepal’s aviation sector is now safer than in the past and Nepal is above average with a score of 70.1 percent in terms of safety implementation under the eight categories prescribed by the International Civil Aviation Organization, Minister Ale urged to lift the air embargo.

Eight years ago, the EU blacklisted Nepal’s international aviation and banned flights to European countries, citing poor security in Nepal’s aviation sector. However, even after the ICAO lifted the ban on Nepal, Nepali pilots have not been allowed to fly, demanding more qualifications and training to meet international standards. Meanwhile, Director General of the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal Pradip Kumar Adhikari said that Nepal has provided training and qualifications for pilots.

Currently in Nepal, Nepal Airlines, Buddha Air and Himalayan Airlines are awaiting EU approval for international flights.