Aviation Medicine in Nepal: Scope, Challenges and the Role of the Aviation Medical Examiner

Nepal presents unique challenges for aviation medicine given its challenging terrain, high-altitude airstrips, and rapidly growing aviation sector. As an Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) certified by the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) and with postgraduate training through IAASM-SAA, the author reviews the current state of aviation medicine practice in Nepal. Key topics addressed include: medical certification standards for pilots and air traffic controllers, common disqualifying conditions, high-altitude physiology in Himalayan operations, and the gap between international ICAO standards and current Nepali practice. Recommendations for strengthening aviation medicine infrastructure are provided.