The Nepal Airlines Corporation (NAC) is increasing flights to Japan due to growing passenger demand and the festive season. From September 18, the national flag carrier will operate four flights a week from Kathmandu to Narita International Airport to boost air connectivity between Nepal and Japan. According to the new schedule, the flights on the Kathmandu-Narita-Kathmandu route will be operated every Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Sunday. The airline currently operates the route three times a week, and the additional service is expected to provide more options for travelers, including Nepali migrant workers, students, tourists and business passengers.
Additional Capacity to Meet Growing Demand
The move to add flights comes as demand for travel between Nepal and Japan is on the rise, especially during the festive season when many Nepalis abroad come home. By adding an extra weekly service, Nepal Airlines aims to improve seat availability, reduce travel pressure during peak travel periods, and offer passengers more flexible travel options. The longer schedule will also help boost tourism and business links between Nepal and Japan and to facilitate the increasing flow of travelers in both directions.
Wide-Body Aircraft Returns After Major Maintenance
In a statement, Nepal Airlines said that the airline’s Airbus wide-body aircraft “Annapurna” has resumed service after completing its fourth C-check. C-check is a mandatory and comprehensive maintenance inspection that commercial aircraft have to undergo to continue operating safely. The move will support Nepal Airlines’ expanded international operations. The aircraft left Kathmandu for Dubai on 7 July 2026 and then underwent extensive technical maintenance in Italy.
After completing all scheduled inspections and servicing, it returned to Kathmandu on 6 August, 2026 and has already resumed regular commercial operations. The C-check is one of the most important scheduled maintenance checks in aviation. This includes a detailed check of the aircraft structure, systems, engines, avionics, and safety systems to ensure the airworthiness and operational reliability of the aircraft.
Preparations Completed for Flydubai Operations in Pokhara
In another operational development, Nepal Airlines has completed all necessary preparations to provide ground handling services for Flydubai’s regular flights at Pokhara International Airport. Flydubai is scheduled to begin regular operations to Pokhara in September, and Nepal Airlines will be responsible for providing essential ground support services, including aircraft handling, passenger assistance, baggage operations, and ramp services. The move is expected to enhance operational efficiency at Pokhara International Airport while supporting the expansion of international air connectivity to Nepal’s second international gateway.
Strengthening International Air Connectivity
With the expansion of Japan services, the return of its fully maintained wide-body aircraft, and preparations for supporting Flydubai’s operations in Pokhara, Nepal Airlines continues to strengthen its international network and operational capacity. These developments are expected to improve passenger services, increase flight reliability, and contribute to Nepal’s growing aviation and tourism sectors.
