The direct flight service operated by Buddha Air between Nepalgunj and Pokhara has been temporarily suspended, ending nearly five years of regular operations on the route. According to Buddha Air Nepalgunj Station Chief Binita Bikram Shah, the suspension has been made for one month due to a sharp decline in passenger demand and rising aviation fuel costs. He said the reduction in Indian religious tourists, particularly during the month-long Malmas period, combined with increased operational expenses, made continued operation financially unsustainable at present.
Flight Suspended of Buddha Air After Consistent Service Since 2021
The direct flight between Nepalgunj and Pokhara by Buddha Air was launched on August 17, 2021 (Bhadra 2078 BS) to promote tourism and provide easier access for Indian and domestic travellers. Buddha Air has operated three times a week, offering a crucial air link between western Nepal and the tourism hub of Pokhara. The suspension came into effect from Tuesday, leaving the future of the route uncertain.
Impact on Travelers and Tourism Sector
The suspension of the direct air service has disappointed passengers, tourism entrepreneurs, and travel agencies in western Nepal. With the flight halted, travelers are now forced to undertake long road journeys of at least 14 hours between Nepalgunj and Pokhara. The route of Buddha Air was initially introduced through the initiative of the Association of Tours and Travel Agents (NATTA) Nepalgunj, aiming to boost tourism connectivity and ease regional travel.
NATTA Nepalgunj founding president Shreeram Sigdel said the suspension reflects a lack of sustained government support for a service that was originally driven by private sector initiative. He added that what began as a promising tourism facilitation project has now become uncertain due to policy and operational challenges.
Once a Boost for Tourism Connectivity
During its operation, the Nepalgunj–Pokhara flight significantly improved access to major tourist destinations, including Bardia National Park, Karnali Chisapani, and Rara Lake. It also made travel easier for international tourists arriving from Indian cities such as Lucknow, Kanpur, and New Delhi, offering smoother connections to Pokhara and western Nepal.
At the time of launch, airfare ranged from Rs 4,935 to Rs 7,635, depending on demand and seat availability. The airline had also planned to expand services to daily flights as passenger numbers increased.
Fuel Costs and Declining Demand Behind Suspension
Buddha Air officials said rising aviation fuel prices and a decline in passenger load factors following fare adjustments contributed significantly to the decision to suspend the route. The airline had been operating the service using 18-seat Beechcraft 1900D aircraft. With reduced demand and higher operating costs, maintaining regular flights became economically challenging.
Tourism Sector Calls for Revival of Route
Tourism stakeholders in western Nepal have expressed concern over the suspension, stating that the route played an important role in regional tourism development and connectivity. They believe restoring the service would help revive tourist flow between western Nepal and Pokhara, and strengthen air connectivity for both domestic and international travelers. For now, the suspension leaves passengers reliant on long and difficult road journeys, reversing the convenience once provided by the short 35-minute flight connection.
