The Government of Nepal has appointed Joint Secretary Mukesh Dangol as the new Director General of the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN).
The decision was taken during Monday’s Cabinet meeting, marking an important administrative move aimed at ensuring continuity in Nepal’s civil aviation governance and regulatory operations. Dangol had earlier been serving as Acting Director General of CAAN for 15 days following the suspension of former Director General Pradeep Adhikari over corruption allegations.
Government Prioritizes Stability in Aviation Administration
According to the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation, the decision to assign Dangol additional responsibility was made at the level of the Prime Minister and the ministerial leadership. The ministry clarified that, until further arrangements are made, Joint Secretary Dangol will oversee all responsibilities of the Director General to ensure regulatory stability and uninterrupted operations.
Officials stated that the move reflects the government’s priority to maintain smooth functioning within the aviation sector at a time when Nepal is actively working to strengthen regulatory oversight and align its aviation system with international safety standards.
Focus on Aviation Safety and Institutional Reform
The Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal plays a key role in regulating air safety, airport operations, and aviation standards across the country. With ongoing efforts to improve safety oversight and infrastructure modernization, leadership continuity is considered essential. Under his new role, Dangol is expected to oversee daily operations of CAAN, coordinate ongoing reform initiatives, and ensure effective implementation of aviation safety protocols.
His responsibilities will also include facilitating coordination with international aviation bodies and supporting Nepal’s long-term goal of improving compliance with global aviation standards. The appointment comes at a critical time as Nepal continues efforts to enhance its aviation safety record and address longstanding regulatory challenges, including those linked to international safety assessments.
Strengthening Governance in Civil Aviation Sector
Officials believe that interim leadership under Dangol will help maintain operational stability while the government works toward a permanent leadership arrangement for CAAN. His prior experience within the authority is expected to support smooth decision-making and continuity in key regulatory functions.
The Ministry emphasized that aviation safety, institutional accountability, and efficient service delivery remain top priorities for the government as it continues reforms in the sector.
