Buddha Air’s state-of-the-art hangar, inaugurated on April 18, 2012, is a significant achievement for Nepal’s aviation industry. As the only private airline in Nepal with its own hangar, and one of the few in South Asia, this milestone demonstrates the airline’s commitment to maintaining high standards in aviation operations. Built at a cost of $2.5 million, the facility spans an impressive 37,000 square feet at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA).
In aviation, hangars are not just shelters for aircraft but crucial spaces where maintenance, inspections, and repairs take place. These tasks are essential to ensuring that aircraft remain safe, reliable, and ready for flight. Buddha Air’s hangar has taken this essential function to new heights by offering world-class facilities designed to meet international standards.
Industry-Leading Maintenance and Certifications
The hangar is certified as a Part 145 Aircraft Maintenance Organization by the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN), aligning it with European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA 145) standards. This certification means that Buddha Air’s hangar is fully equipped to carry out a wide range of complex maintenance tasks, ensuring that all aircraft are in optimal condition.
The hangar is capable of handling routine inspections like 200-hour detailed checks and ‘I’ checks, along with more extensive procedures such as ‘C’ checks and 12-year inspections on the ATR fleet. Additionally, specialized tasks like installing Multi-Purpose Computer (MPC) systems and the Primus 660 weather radar are carried out here, minimizing downtime and improving quality control.
Strategic Location and Modern Facilities
Located at TIA, Buddha Air’s hangar offers the advantage of conducting on-site safety inspections and audits. This eliminates the need to send aircraft abroad for maintenance, which not only saves valuable time but also reduces operational costs. The hangar is equipped with a fire-fighting system that meets international standards and an extensive inventory of aircraft spares worth $9.3 million. These modern facilities play a vital role in maintaining the smooth and safe operation of the airline’s fleet.
In addition to servicing its own fleet, the hangar also provides maintenance services to other national and international airlines, further strengthening its reputation in the region.
The Workforce and Work Environment
The hangar employs 60% of Buddha Air’s workforce, with a layout designed to facilitate efficient operations. The ground floor hosts workshops, technical stores, and maintenance offices, covering about 8,000 square feet. The first floor houses the technical and operations departments, featuring a central server room, meeting rooms, and well-equipped offices. The second floor includes a canteen, dormitories for technicians, a classroom for training, and libraries dedicated to the technical and operations teams.
Commitment to Training and Staff Development
One of the standout features of Buddha Air’s hangar is its commitment to continuous training and development. The in-house classroom, capable of seating up to 45 people, is used for ongoing education and training sessions. These efforts ensure that the technical team stays updated on the latest aviation maintenance practices, safety protocols, and industry innovations. This focus on staff development helps to maintain high standards of service and safety.
Recognition and Achievements
Buddha Air’s hangar has earned notable recognition, including the prestigious IPMA Excellence Award on October 7, 2014. This award reflects the exceptional quality of the facility’s construction and its operational efficiency. Additionally, the hangar has received certification as an Approved Maintenance Organization by the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh, further enhancing its standing in the aviation community.
Maximizing Aircraft Performance and Longevity
Regular maintenance and timely inspections are essential for extending the lifespan of aircraft and ensuring they perform optimally. Buddha Air’s hangar provides advanced facilities that allow for these crucial tasks to be carried out efficiently, minimizing the risk of unexpected breakdowns. By reducing aircraft downtime and handling maintenance in-house, the airline ensures that its fleet remains operational and ready to serve passengers without delays.
Enhancing Operational Efficiency
A dedicated hangar allows Buddha Air to minimize the time aircraft spend out of service. With the ability to perform a wide range of maintenance tasks on-site, the airline can quickly return aircraft to service, enhancing operational efficiency and maintaining a reliable flight schedule. This is vital for meeting passenger demands and ensuring customer satisfaction.
Conclusion
Buddha Air’s hangar is not just a physical space for aircraft maintenance; it is a key element in the airline’s success. The well-designed, strategically located facility plays a pivotal role in ensuring the reliability, safety, and performance of the airline’s fleet. As Buddha Air continues to set new standards in aviation maintenance, its hangar remains a cornerstone of the airline’s operational excellence, supporting every flight with the highest level of precision and safety.
By maintaining a dedicated, state-of-the-art hangar facility, Buddha Air demonstrates its commitment to passenger safety and operational efficiency, making it a leading example in Nepal’s aviation industry.