KATHMANDU, JUNE 11

A study report prepared by the high-level committee shows that Himalaya Airlines, Yeti Airlines and Tara Air stood on the top in implementing the safety management system to ensure aviation safety in 2021.

A five-member committee led by Buddhi Sagar Lamichhane, joint secretary at the ministry of culture tourism and civil aviation, was formed by Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba eight months ago to study the current status of the country's aviation sector and make recommendations for the betterment of the aviation services.

During the study, the committee found in SMS audit that Himalaya airlines scored high among the international airlines while Summit and Yeti Airlines topped the chart among the airlines flying on the trunk route as well as Tara Air has been found the best among the short take off and landing (STOL) aircraft.

'In implementing the safety management system in 2021, Himalaya Airlines scored 87 percent while Summit Air (81%), Yeti Airlines (79%) and Tara Air (64%),' the report stated.

The committee members include Pramod Nepal, under secretary at MoCTCA, former director at Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal Bhesh Raj Subedi, senior captain KB Poudel and CAAN manager Laxman Devkota.

Among nine helicopters, Manang Air scored 77% while Heli Everest and Mountain Helicopters got 72% in implementing SMS, the report added.

The committee also suggested that CAAN must implement the safety recommendations made by different accident investigation commissions. 'There is a need for a separate mechanism to conduct safety audit and inspection,' the committee added.

The committee also recommended the accountability framework, human resource plan and construction of hangars in the long-run.