Originally Posted by
ATC Watcher
CAAN ( the Nepalese Civil Aviation authority) has considerably improved over the last years, and is well above average compared to other poorer countries
Hi ATC W. I agree with most of what you have said re this accident, and you are right that CAAN made some excellent progress in the past few years – until recently. Sadly, since his appointment (about 11 months ago) the new Director General has set aviation safety (and efficiency, and compliance) back years. It’s incredibly frustrating because CAAN has many dedicated knowledgeable professionals who are now cowering at their desks as this dictator wreaks havoc. I could list many examples but that’s likely better via PM, so feel free.
Regarding the recorders, and the accident investigation, CAAN is not involved at all; it is not represented on the investigative panel and does not have observer status. So far the panel is undertaking their job seriously and diligently, hence no leaks.
Lastly, anyone interested in possible background factors (NOT root cause) related to this accident would find the latest Nepal AIP Amendment (#2 – 2023), and Amendment 9 of 2022, to be of interest. In a nutshell, there was great pressure to open Pokhara on January 1st, even if things that should have been in place were not.
In any case, it’s a damn sad accident.