Himalaya Airlines, a Nepal-China joint venture, has become an IOSA registered operator, the first airline in Nepal to do so.

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) Operational Safety Audit (IOSA) is the benchmark for global safety management in airlines. The career said that the issuance of IOSA certification by the IATA on December 28 has validity until March 3, 2025.

The certificate reads, “Himalaya Airlines Pvt Ltd has been successfully registered as an IOSA operator by the provisions of the IOSA Program Manual.”

Vijay Shrestha, vice-president of Himalaya Airlines, said, "This milestone signifies a positive shift in Nepal's aviation industry. We are proud to lead by example, setting new benchmarks for safety and operational excellence.”

“This certification not only validates our ongoing efforts to maintain the highest safety standards but also positions us as a trusted airline in the global aviation community. We look forward to continuing to raise the bar in the years to come.”

Deputy Director General of the Aviation Safety and Security Regulation Directorate Nabina Karmacharya said, “On behalf of the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal, I commend Himalaya Airlines for their exceptional dedication to safety leading to the prestigious IOSA certification.

“This accomplishment of Himalaya has helped in reinforcing trust and confidence amongst the passengers, contributing significantly towards the growth and development of air travel in the country.”

Himalaya Airlines has four aircraft in its fleet: three Airbus 320 and one Airbus 319. It currently operates flights to the UAE, Malaysia, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bangladesh and China. Himalaya flies to five cities in China—Beijing, Qingdao, Shanghai, Chongqing and Lhasa.