Aircraft Registration in Nepal: Complete 2025 Guide

Last Updated: May-15-2025

Introduction

Nepal’s aviation sector, governed by the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN), requires strict compliance for aircraft registration. This guide covers the step-by-step process, documentation, costs, and regulatory framework for registering private, commercial, or charter aircraft in Nepal.

1. Legal Framework for Aircraft Registration

Governing Authorities

• Primary Regulator: Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN)

• Relevant Laws:

  • Civil Aviation Act 2019

  • Aircraft Registration and Marking Regulations 2020

  • Chicago Convention (ICAO compliance)

Key Requirements

✅ Aircraft must meet ICAO safety standards
✅ Foreign-registered aircraft can operate under wet lease agreements (max 5 years)
✅ Mandatory Nepalese tail number (9N-XXX series)

2. Step-by-Step Registration Process

Phase 1: Pre-Registration

1️⃣ Eligibility Check

• Commercial operators: Obtain Air Operator Certificate (AOC) first

• Private aircraft: Submit ownership proof

2️⃣ Document Preparation

• Bill of Sale/Manufacturer’s Certificate

• Export Certificate of Airworthiness (for imported aircraft)

• Noise & Emissions Compliance Certificates

Phase 2: Formal Application

3️⃣ Submit to CAAN

• Form AC-01 (Application for Registration)

• Technical logs & maintenance records

• Insurance coverage (minimum $500M liability)

4️⃣ CAAN Inspection

• Airworthiness inspection (7-10 working days)

• Verification of engine/component serial numbers

Phase 3: Post-Registration

5️⃣ Receive Certificate of Registration (Valid for 1 year, renewable)
6️⃣ Aircraft Marking – Apply 9N-XXX tail number (CAAN-approved painter)
7️⃣ Radio License Application – Nepal Telecommunications Authority

⏳ Total Timeline: 4-8 weeks

3. Required Documents Checklist

⚠️ Foreign documents require apostille/legalization and English/Nepali translation.

4. Costs & Fees (2024)

💡 Additional costs for:

• Import duty (1-5% of aircraft value)

• Local agent fees (recommended for foreign applicants)

5. Special Cases

A. Importing Aircraft to Nepal

• Customs Clearance: Submit CAAN approval + purchase invoice

• Taxes: 13% VAT + 1.5% customs duty (exemptions for humanitarian orgs)

B. Wet-Lease Aircraft

• Maximum duration: 5 years

• Requires CAAN + MoTCA approval

• Nepalese operator must hold valid AOC

C. Drone Registration

• < 2 kg: No registration

• > 2 kg: Full CAAN registration + No-fly zone compliance

6. Compliance & Renewals

• Annual Inspections: Mandatory airworthiness checks

• Insurance Updates: Submit renewed policy to CAAN

• Ownership Changes: Notify CAAN within 14 days

• De-Registration: Clear all dues before export

⚠️ Penalties: Up to $10,000 for late renewals or unauthorized modifications.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can foreigners register aircraft in Nepal?

Yes, but must appoint a local agent for CAAN liaison.

2. How long is registration valid?

1 year, renewable 30 days before expiry.

3. Are helicopters registered differently?

Same process, but higher inspection fees (avg. $3,500).

4. Can I use a foreign-registered aircraft temporarily?

Yes, under 30-day tourist permit (non-commercial only).

5. What’s the fastest way to register?

Use CAAN’s Priority Service (+50% fee, processes in 10 days).

Conclusion & Pro Tips

Nepal’s aircraft registration is transparent but detail-oriented. For smooth processing:

🔹 Hire a local aviation consultant for CAAN coordination
🔹 Verify airworthiness standards match ICAO Annex 8
🔹 Budget for hidden costs (e.g., translation, storage fees)

📞 Need assistance? [Contac Neplawyers for personalized support.