KATHMANDU: The Civil Aviation Authority has introduced new monsoon safety rules requiring two pilots on all helicopter flights during the 2026 monsoon season, except medical evacuation missions carrying stretcher patients.

The directive, issued under the annual monsoon safety circular, will come into force from June 15 and remain valid until the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology declares the end of the monsoon period.

Along with the two-pilot requirement, the regulation mandates strict pre-flight checks, including verification of aircraft technical condition, minimum equipment standards, and detailed weather assessment for routes, destinations, and alternate landing sites.

Aircraft will not be cleared for operation unless critical systems such as weather radar, anti-skid systems, flight control surfaces, engine reverse thrust, and ground proximity warning systems are fully functional.

Pilots must maintain safe separation from severe weather systems, prioritize instrument-based landings in low visibility, and divert or return if conditions deteriorate.

Authorities said the measures aim to reduce weather-related aviation risks during the monsoon season, when adverse conditions frequently affect flight safety.