A high-level discussion was held in Pokhara regarding the resumption of Nepal Airlines Corporation (NAC) flights from Pokhara International Airport. The meeting brought together key stakeholders, including Gandaki Province’s Minister for Industry, Tourism, Forests, and Environment, Mitralal Basyal, Nepal Airlines Corporation’s Institutional Department Director, Anil Ghimire, and Maniraj Lamichhane, Head of Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) Gandaki Province.
The primary focus of the discussion was to explore ways to restart regular commercial flights operated by Nepal Airlines from Pokhara International Airport, which is crucial for boosting air connectivity and enhancing tourism in the region. Participants highlighted the importance of establishing frequent domestic and international flights to maximize the airport’s potential and contribute to Gandaki Province’s tourism growth.
During the meeting, Minister Basyal emphasized the provincial government’s commitment to promoting Pokhara as a key aviation hub and ensuring better air transport accessibility for both domestic and international travelers. He stressed that the resumption of Nepal Airlines flights would facilitate easier travel for tourists and enhance the province’s economic prospects.
Nepal Airlines’ Institutional Director, Anil Ghimire, acknowledged the importance of expanding services from Pokhara International Airport and discussed the corporation’s plans for future operations. He assured that efforts are underway to assess the feasibility of launching scheduled flights and addressing operational challenges.
Similarly, NTB Gandaki Chief Maniraj Lamichhane pointed out that improved air connectivity is essential for attracting more international visitors to Pokhara, which serves as a gateway to major tourist destinations, including the Annapurna region, Mustang, and beyond.
The meeting concluded with an agreement to work collaboratively on strategies to enhance air travel options from Pokhara, streamline regulatory processes, and promote the city as a premier tourism hub through better aviation infrastructure.
The resumption of Nepal Airlines flights from Pokhara is expected to bring significant benefits to the tourism industry, making travel more convenient for both domestic and international visitors while strengthening Pokhara’s position as Nepal’s leading tourism destination.
