Pokhara International Airport is set to witness a major milestone as Sichuan Airlines prepares to operate flights from Pokhara to Australia via Chengdu, China. The Chinese carrier has already approached the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) seeking approval for the new route. According to CAAN’s Information Officer, Gyanendra Bhul, the airline has formally requested permission and informal discussions have been held regarding the operational plan. Necessary regulatory procedures are currently underway, and the approval process is expected to be completed soon.
Flights Expected to Begin from September
Sichuan Airlines is planning to commence these flights from September. The route will connect Pokhara to Australia with a stopover in Chengdu, opening new travel opportunities for both tourism and Nepali migrant communities. “Informal talks have been conducted about this route, and the matter is now in bilateral discussions to finalize formal procedures. The airline is expected to present its flight schedule soon,” Bhul stated. This development is expected to significantly benefit Nepalis traveling to and from Australia.
Previous Operations at Pokhara International Airport
Sichuan Airlines is not new to Pokhara. The carrier previously operated charter flights to the city, most notably in July 2023 during the “Nepal–China Friendship Dragon Boat Race Festival” at Phewa Lake. At that time, the airline’s Airbus A319 made its maiden landing at Pokhara International Airport, transporting Chinese delegates, athletes, and tourists. The upcoming regular flights to Australia mark an expansion of the airline’s destinations from Pokhara.
Bhutan Airlines to Operate Charter Flights from Pokhara
In addition to Sichuan Airlines’ expansion plans, Bhutan’s private airline, Bhutan Airlines (Tashi Air), is preparing to operate charter flights from Pokhara to Paro International Airport. The airline has requested permission for two to three charter services, scheduled for September 28 and in October. If the charters prove viable, the airline intends to launch regular flights, potentially operating fifth freedom routes such as Paro–Pokhara–Delhi and Delhi–Pokhara–Paro.
Current Operations at Pokhara Airport
At present, Himalaya Airlines is the only carrier operating regular international flights from Pokhara International Airport, connecting Kathmandu and Lhasa. The addition of Sichuan Airlines and Bhutan Airlines is expected to boost passenger traffic, enhance connectivity, and make the airport more vibrant.
Significance of Pokhara International Airport
Pokhara International Airport, inaugurated on January 1, 2023 (Poush 17, 2079 B.S.), is Nepal’s third international airport after Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu and Gautam Buddha International Airport in Bhairahawa. Built over 3,900 ropani of land at a cost of approximately NPR 22 billion, the airport features a 2,500-meter-long and 45-meter-wide runway and has an annual passenger handling capacity of 800,000.
Bhutan Airlines and Druk Air Services in Nepal
Currently, Bhutan’s two airlines, Bhutan Airlines and Druk Air, operate flights to Kathmandu. Bhutan Airlines already operates fifth freedom flights on the Paro–Kathmandu–Delhi route, while Druk Air flies Paro–Kathmandu–Paro–Delhi. With permission, Bhutan Airlines could expand its operations to include Pokhara as a stopover point, potentially increasing its regional footprint.
Developments at Gautam Buddha International Airport
Meanwhile, Gautam Buddha International Airport in Bhairahawa is also seeing renewed interest from foreign carriers. Jazeera Airways and Thai AirAsia, both of which had previously suspended operations, are preparing to restart flights from the airport. Thai AirAsia has planned to begin twice-weekly flights from October 26, coinciding with the winter schedule, while Jazeera Airways also intends to resume services during the same season.
Government Incentives for International Flights from Pokhara and Bhairahawa
To attract more international carriers, the government of Nepal has introduced generous incentives for flights from Pokhara and Bhairahawa. Since August 12, 2024 (Shrawan 28, 2081 B.S.), all international flights from these airports are exempt from various fees, including passenger service charges, landing fees, parking fees, and navigation fees. Ground handling services provided by Nepal Airlines Corporation also receive a 75% discount. These incentives aim to make both airports more competitive and attractive to foreign airlines.
Outlook for Nepal’s Regional Aviation Connectivity
The introduction of regular flights from Pokhara to Australia via Chengdu, alongside planned charter operations by Bhutan Airlines and the revival of services at Bhairahawa, signals a significant step forward for Nepal’s regional and long-haul connectivity. With strategic incentives in place and growing interest from international carriers, both Pokhara and Bhairahawa airports could see increased air traffic, benefiting tourism, trade, and the Nepali diaspora.
Article By: Cb Adhikari
