POKHARA: Pokhara Metropolitan City Mayor Dhanraj Acharya has called for collective efforts to sustain the direct flight between Pokhara International Airport and Chengdu, China, highlighting its potential to boost international connectivity and tourism.
Speaking at a ceremony organized by the Pokhara Tourism Council on Monday to distribute certificates to participants of the first commercial chartered flight to Chengdu, Mayor Acharya said the milestone marks a turning point for Pokhara’s aviation and tourism sectors.
“The success of this flight has expanded the possibilities of international air connectivity from Pokhara,” Acharya said, adding that events held in cities such as Chengdu, Luzhou, and Chongqing during the trip helped strengthen Nepal-China ties and tourism partnerships.
He also emphasized the strategic importance of utilizing Sichuan Airlines’ global network and noted that the potential for direct flights from Pokhara to Ali Airport near Mount Kailash could significantly contribute to the local economy.
Maniraj Lamichhane, Chief of the Nepal Tourism Board’s Gandaki Province Office, said the BTU and sales missions conducted in Chengdu and Chongqing alongside the flight played a key role in promoting Nepal’s tourism offerings.
Pokhara Tourism Council Chair Taranath Pahari said the flight had further cemented Pokhara’s connection with China and stressed the need for joint efforts to ensure its continuity.
Council General Secretary and Program Coordinator Jeevanraj Sapkota thanked all stakeholders who contributed to the success of the first flight, describing it as a pivotal moment in deepening city-to-city relations.
Founding council members Ashok Palikhe, Ramkali Khadka, and Deepak Pahari also spoke at the event, suggesting that Pokhara should take inspiration from China’s discipline, cleanliness, and development model.
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