Lighting Nepal’s Gateway: High-Mast Illumination at Tribhuvan International Airport

Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) Nepal’s busiest and only international airport, required upgraded apron lighting to support safer, round-the-clock operations amid rising air traffic. Mahavir Shree International Pvt. Ltd. (MSIPL) executed the “Supply, Delivery & Installation of Apron Mast Lights and Accessories” project, which included high-mast installations across international and domestic apron areas, helipads, and remote parking bays. The project, completed in collaboration with the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN), enhanced illumination and safety standards in compliance with ICAO recommendations.

Key Deliverables

✓ Installation of High-Mast Lighting Systems: 9 units of 25-meter Valmont High Masts and 1 unit of 16-meter mast.

✓ Equipped with CREE LED Flood Lights (420W & 523W) and Avlite Twin Aircraft Obstruction Lights.

✓ Electrical Integration: Independent MCC bands and MCBs for each mast ensuring safety and redundancy.

✓ Timer-controlled lighting systems for optimized operation.

✓ Civil and Structural Works: Foundation, cabling, and erection completed in four packages (A–D) for uninterrupted airport operation.

✓ Testing and Commissioning: Functional testing conducted jointly with CAAN and MSIPL teams ensuring ICAO-compliant illumination performance.

Impact

The successful implementation transformed nighttime visibility at TIA’s aprons, helipad, and parking zones, significantly improving aircraft taxiing, ground handling, and overall operational safety. Despite challenges of high altitude, weather, and continuous airport traffic, MSIPL completed the project on schedule. The upgraded lighting has modernized the airside infrastructure, ensuring uninterrupted operation from dusk to dawn while enhancing energy efficiency and reliability.

Conclusion

Through technical excellence and coordinated teamwork with CAAN, MSIPL delivered a high-impact lighting solution that now brightens Nepal’s busiest airport every night. The Apron Mast Lighting Project not only improved operational efficiency but also symbolizes Nepal’s progress in aviation infrastructure and safety standards.