Nepal is a premier destination for private aviation in South Asia — whether for Everest observation flights, Himalayan adventure travel, or business into Kathmandu. Like India, Nepal requires a landing permit for all foreign-registered private and charter aircraft.
Regulatory Authority
Landing permits for Nepal are issued by the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN), the Nepali equivalent of India’s DGCA. Applications are processed through CAAN’s Air Transport Division.
Primary Airport: Tribhuvan International (VNKT)
Most international private jet arrivals into Nepal use Tribhuvan International Airport (IATA: KTM / ICAO: VNKT) in Kathmandu. It is Nepal’s only international airport with customs and immigration facilities for private jet operations.
Note: Lukla (VNLK), Pokhara (VNPK), and Bharatpur airports handle domestic or scenic flights but are not equipped for foreign-registered international arrivals without special arrangement.
Documents Required for Nepal Landing Permit
- Aircraft registration certificate
- Certificate of Airworthiness (valid)
- Pilot licence copies (all crew)
- Third-party liability insurance valid for Nepal
- Noise certificate
- Passenger manifest (names, nationalities, passport numbers)
- Details of the flight: origin, date, purpose, ETD/ETA
- Contact details of handling agent in Nepal
Processing Timeline
Standard permits: 5-7 working days from receipt of complete documentation.
For urgent medical flights: expedited processing available, contact CAAN directly through your handling agent.
Key Operational Considerations for VNKT
High-altitude approach. Kathmandu is at 1,338 metres (4,390 ft) above sea level. The surrounding terrain requires careful approach planning. Crew must be briefed on the specific SIDs/STARs for VNKT and the non-standard missed approach procedures.
Slot restrictions. VNKT has limited apron space and slot availability is tighter than Indian metros. Book slots 5-7 days in advance.
Mountain Meteorology. Kathmandu weather can change rapidly. Allow for flexibility in your schedule, particularly for the first and last flight of the day.
Fuel availability. Jet A-1 is available at VNKT. Confirm fuel availability and pricing with your handling agent before departure — shortages occasionally occur.
Internal Links for India-Nepal Routing
Many operators combine a Kathmandu stop with an India leg. If so, you’ll need a separate Indian landing permit. See:
- How to Get a Landing Permit in India for Private Jets
- Overflight Permit India — needed if your routing transits Indian FIR en route to Nepal
- Aileron Air Landing and Overflight Permits
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can Aileron Air arrange Nepal landing permits?
A: Yes. Aileron Air arranges landing permits for Nepal through our South Asia network as part of our regional trip support services. Contact us with your routing details.
Q: Is there an overflight permit for Nepal?
A: Yes. Foreign aircraft transiting Nepali airspace without landing at a Nepali airport require a Nepali overflight permit from CAAN. Your handling agent applies simultaneously with other regional permits.
Q: What aircraft types are restricted at VNKT?
A: Aircraft above a certain MTOW may require special CAAN clearance. Very large business jets (Gulfstream G700, Boeing BBJ, Airbus ACJ) should confirm apron compatibility and landing rights with CAAN through their handling agent before scheduling.
Aileron Air covers the full South Asia corridor — India, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Maldives — with a single point of contact. Plan your South Asia trip with us.
