The chairman of Saurya Airlines (Kathmandu) says the carrier is preparing to resume operations after a fatal crash six months ago and the subsequent suspension of its air operator’s certificate (AOC).
Dipak Pokharel told Kathmandu’s Business Age newspaper that the airline had submitted the required documents to the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) and was awaiting approval to resume flights. CAAN has confirmed receipt of the documentation but has yet to make a decision.
CAAN spokesperson Gyanendra Bhul says, among other things, that the agency is weighing up whether Saurya Airlines meets the minimum staffing and airworthiness requirements for the reissuance of its AOC. Pokharel said measures such as recruiting staff and purchasing new aircraft are underway.
Saurya suspended operations and later lost its AOC after a CRJ200ER crashed during takeoff from Kathmandu on July 24, 2024. Eighteen people died. The carrier is now down to two CRJ200s, although only one is operational.
According to Pokharel, since the crash the airline has hired new technical employees, primarily from other operators in Nepal and India, and also recently hired five captains and five first officers. The chairman added that all salaries are up to date, thanks to financial support from 49% shareholder, India’s Kuber Group. The shareholder will help with longstanding plans to acquire three ATR72-600s, he said. Once operations resume, Pokharel said he hopes to transition from a Bombardier Aerospace CRJ fleet to an ATR – Avions de Transport Régional fleet.