EU, Nepal Join Hands to Strengthen Aviation Safety Across South Asia
Kathmandu-The European Union (EU) has intensified its aviation cooperation with Nepal and South Asian countries by launching two major regional aviation safety initiatives in Kathmandu aimed at strengthening air safety, regulatory oversight and technical cooperation across the region.
Under the EU–South Asia Aviation Partnership Project (EU–South Asia APP), aviation authorities, airlines, industry representatives and technical experts from across South Asia will participate in a series of programmes over the next two weeks to exchange expertise and discuss practical measures to improve aviation safety.
The first programme, the third module of the Regional Aviation Safety Programme (RASP), is being hosted by the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) from June 23 to 25 in partnership with aircraft manufacturer ATR. The training focuses on crew training and operational standards, including decision-making processes, operational resilience and fatigue management.Speaking at the opening ceremony, Thomas Millar, Chargé d’Affaires of the EU Delegation to Nepal, said aviation safety remains a key priority for Nepal and welcomed the government’s recent efforts to address concerns raised by the European Commission.
“We have taken note of the recent commitment expressed by Nepal’s Finance Minister and appreciate the submission of the complete package regarding the implementation of the Corrective Action Plan. Our colleagues at the European Commission will review the documents in the coming months,” Millar said.He reiterated the EU’s commitment to supporting Nepal in achieving higher aviation safety standards through continued technical assistance and close cooperation with government agencies and aviation stakeholders.
A notable feature of the programme is the active participation of regional airlines, which will share operational experiences, case studies and lessons learned alongside aviation experts. Organizers believe the initiative will help build stronger cooperation between regulators, operators and industry representatives while promoting sustainable aviation safety practices.In a second major event, Kathmandu will host the Regulatory Updates in Continuing Airworthiness Workshop from June 29 to July 2 under the South Asia Regional Initiative (SARI). The workshop will focus on recent developments in European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) regulations and modern aircraft oversight systems, helping regional aviation authorities adapt to evolving international standards.According to the EU, the two programmes reflect a shift from isolated technical exchanges to a more structured and long-term framework for regional aviation cooperation. The initiatives also highlight Nepal’s growing role as a hub for aviation dialogue and collaboration in South Asia.
The EU stated that stronger aviation safety systems are crucial for enhancing connectivity, boosting tourism and supporting economic growth. Through these partnerships, the bloc aims to contribute to safer, more resilient and future-ready air transport systems across the region.The EUSouth Asia Aviation Partnership Project is part of the broader EU–Asia Aviation Partnership Programme, funded by the European Union and implemented by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). The project supports aviation authorities and stakeholders across South Asia through technical assistance, regulatory dialogue and capacity-building programmes aligned with international aviation standards.
