Flights into Pokhara could one day be less at the mercy of the weather. Nepal’s aviation regulator says it has finished a preliminary technical study for a new satellite-based approach procedure at Pokhara International Airport.
The Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) confirmed the progress in a press release dated October 15, 2026, titled “Press Release (Regarding RNP-AR Approach Procedure at Pokhara International Airport)”. Detailed design, technical validation, a safety assessment and regulatory approval are all still needed.
What RNP-AR actually is
RNP-AR stands for Required Navigation Performance - Authorization Required. In plain terms, it lets suitably equipped aircraft, flown by specially authorised crews, follow a tightly defined path to the runway. Satellites and onboard systems do the guiding, so the aircraft does not depend only on navigation aids on the ground.
The approach can be designed around difficult terrain, which is why it suits airport surrounded by hills. CAAn has earlier described the technology in its documents on operations at Tribhuvan International Airport. It helps to be clear about what RNP-AR is not. It is a way of flying an approach,not a new runway. It is also not a system that makes landing possible in all weather.
What could change for pilots, airlines and passengers
Pilots could follow a route designed around Pokhara's terrain and obstacles. They would still need the right authorisation, training and equipment. The procedure does not replace pilot judgement or standard safety rules.
Airlines could see fewer diversions, repeated approaches and cancellations, but only if the approved procedure allows approaches in conditions that currently stop landings. The real benefit will depend on the final procedure, the aircraft, the weather limits and each airline's authorisation.
Passengers and tourism businesses could get more predictable arrivals, which would matter more to travellers, hotels and tour operators.
International flights might become more reliable for airlines whose aircraft and crews qualify.
Will planes land in lower visibility?
Possibly, with conditions. CAAN's reported statement says that once the procedure is designed, certified and approved, the minimum visibility needed for some operations could be reduced.
Weather can still disrupt flights for reasons beyond visibility, including wind, cloud, terrain-related safety limits and the limits of individual aircraft. Nobody should expect Pokhara to operate through fog, thick cloud or heavy rain.
Background: what Pokhara has today
Pokhara already has instrument approach procedures. CAAN’s Aeronautical Information Publication includes an ILS approach chart for runway 30, and VOR/DME and ILS as the systems now used at the airport. So the new work adds another approach option, or an alternative one. It does not build a new runway or replace the existing aviation infrastructure.
What happens next
There are five remaining steps :
Detailed design: fixing the exact route, navigation needs and terrain clearance rules.
Technical validation: checking that the procedure works as designed, including through simulation and other technical checks.
Safety assessment and approval: confirming it meets the applicable aviation requirements.
Authorisation of aircraft, airlines and crews: making sure those who want to use it qualify.
Publication and start date: setting when eligible flights can begin.
