On 5 December 2013, the European Commission added all airlines certified in Nepal to the EU air safety list, banning them from operating in European airspace. The Commission cited safety concerns after a run of fatal accidents, including the Sita Air crash of 2012.
In short: Since December 2013, all Nepali airlines have been on the EU air safety list. No Nepali airline flies to Europe, so the practical effect is mainly reputational, but it signals continuing concern about oversight of domestic aviation.
What it means for travellers
The ban does not stop Europeans flying on Nepali domestic airlines, and many travel insurers and companies continue to use them. Some organisations advise their staff to avoid them. On treks, choose established operators, accept weather delays, and consider road alternatives where they exist. See domestic flights in Nepal.
Still listed
Nepal has worked towards removal, including plans to separate the regulator's roles, but the listing has been renewed at every review since 2013.