Representatives of flydubai and tourism entrepreneurs in Pokhara held discussions on Sunday to explore strategies for ensuring the long-term sustainability of the upcoming Pokhara–Dubai flight service, which is expected to begin on September 23.
The meeting brought together officials from flydubai, the Pokhara Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Restaurant and Bar Association Nepal (REBAN) Pokhara to discuss ways of strengthening passenger demand, expanding tourism markets and maximizing the benefits of international air connectivity for Pokhara and the surrounding region.
Stakeholder support key to sustaining international flights
During the interaction, Flydubai Nepal General Manager Nawaraj Shahi briefed participants on preparations for the launch of the service and the progress made to ensure that the route remains commercially viable over the long term. He stressed that continued support from local businesses, tourism stakeholders and the wider community would be essential to maintaining regular international operations from Pokhara International Airport.
Shahi said the new service would significantly improve international accessibility by connecting Pokhara to flydubai’s extensive global network through Dubai, providing easier access to destinations including London, New York and Tokyo. “The success of this service depends not only on the airline but also on the active participation and support of local stakeholders. Together, we can establish Pokhara as a major international tourism gateway,” he said.
Private sector pledges full support
Speaking at the meeting, Gokarna Karki, President of the Pokhara Chamber of Commerce and Industry, reaffirmed the commitment of the private sector to supporting the sustainability of international flights from Pokhara. He said business communities, tourism entrepreneurs and local stakeholders would work closely with the airline to increase passenger traffic and promote Pokhara as an international tourism destination. Tourism entrepreneurs attending the meeting also expressed optimism that direct international connectivity would attract a greater number of foreign visitors and create new opportunities for tourism, hospitality and trade.
Daily flights approved by aviation authority
The discussions come after the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal granted flydubai permission last month to operate daily Dubai–Pokhara–Dubai flights. Following the approval, the airline officially announced its flight schedule, with regular operations scheduled to commence on September 23.
The approval aligns with the Government of Nepal’s policy and programme for the upcoming Fiscal Year 2083/84, which prioritizes diplomatic initiatives to attract international airlines to Pokhara International Airport and expand international air connectivity beyond Kathmandu.
Boost expected for Pokhara tourism
Tourism entrepreneurs believe the launch of scheduled international flights will significantly strengthen Pokhara’s tourism industry by making the city more accessible to international travelers. The direct Dubai connection is expected to serve not only visitors from the Middle East but also passengers from Europe, North America and other global destinations through flydubai’s network and connecting services. Industry representatives say the route could help diversify Nepal’s tourism gateways while supporting local hotels, restaurants, trekking companies and other tourism-related businesses.
International airport awaits regular overseas operations
Despite being inaugurated on January 1, 2023, Pokhara International Airport has yet to establish regular scheduled international services and has primarily handled domestic flights, along with occasional charter operations to and from a limited number of countries.
Constructed with a loan investment of approximately Rs 22 billion, the airport has long awaited regular international connectivity. Tourism stakeholders view the commencement of flydubai’s daily service as a major milestone that could unlock the airport’s full potential and position Pokhara as an important international aviation and tourism hub in western Nepal.
