Pokhara International Airport witnessed a historic milestone on Tuesday as the airport operated its first-ever direct medical rescue flight to India. According to airport spokesperson Jashoda Regmi Subedi, a chartered aircraft operated by Shree Airlines departed Pokhara for Raja Bhoj International Airport at 3:09 PM. The flight marked the first direct air connection between Pokhara International Airport and India since the airport began operations.
Indian Tourist Airlifted After Falling Ill in Nepal
The medical evacuation flight carried Indian national Shambhu Dayal Srivastava from Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, who reportedly fell ill while returning from a pilgrimage visit to Muktinath Temple. Following treatment at Charak Memorial Hospital in Pokhara, the patient’s family arranged a medical charter flight to transport him back to India for further treatment. According to airport authorities, six people were onboard the aircraft, including the patient, three healthcare personnel, and two family members.
Landmark International Operation for Airport
Airport spokesperson Regmi described the flight as an important achievement for Pokhara International Airport and Nepal’s aviation sector. “This is the first direct flight from Pokhara to India. It is a positive development for the airport to see a domestic airline operating an international flight to a neighboring country,” she said. Although Pokhara International Airport has previously handled charter flights to countries including Bhutan and China, this was the first direct flight operated to India.
Airport Still Awaiting Regular International Flights
Pokhara International Airport officially began operations on January 1, 2023, but regular international commercial flights have yet to operate consistently from the facility. Despite being developed as Nepal’s second international gateway after Kathmandu, the airport has largely remained dependent on domestic operations. Tourism and aviation stakeholders have repeatedly stressed the need for stronger international connectivity from Kaski to support tourism and regional economic growth.
Medical Charter Highlights Growing Potential
The successful medical rescue operation has highlighted the growing operational potential of Pokhara International Airport for regional and international aviation services. Officials believe such cross-border charter and emergency flights could help strengthen confidence in the airport’s international capabilities while opening possibilities for future scheduled international routes. The medical evacuation also demonstrated the importance of air connectivity in providing emergency healthcare access for international visitors traveling in Nepal’s mountainous regions.
