POKHARA: Representatives of Flydubai and Pokhara’s tourism sector have discussed measures to ensure the long-term sustainability of the upcoming Dubai–Pokhara flight service, which is scheduled to begin on September 23.
The discussion was held on Sunday with office-bearers of the Pokhara Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Restaurant and Bar Association (REBAN) Pokhara.
Flydubai’s Nepal General Manager, Nawaraj Shahi, shared updates on preparations for the new service and stressed that support from local stakeholders would be essential to maintaining regular operations.
He said the Dubai–Pokhara route would provide passengers with convenient connections to major international destinations, including London, New York and Tokyo, through Flydubai’s network.
During the meeting, Gokarna Karki pledged the private sector’s full support to help ensure the success and sustainability of international flights from Pokhara.
Last month, the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal granted Flydubai permission to operate daily Dubai–Pokhara–Dubai flights. The airline has since announced its flight schedule for the route.
The government had also stated in its policy and programme for the fiscal year 2083/84 that it would pursue diplomatic initiatives to attract international airlines to Pokhara International Airport. Flydubai received operating approval shortly after the announcement.
Tourism entrepreneurs in Pokhara have expressed optimism that the launch of regular international flights will significantly increase the number of foreign visitors to the city.
Built at a cost of around Rs 22 billion with loan financing, Pokhara International Airport was inaugurated on January 1, 2023. Despite its international status, the airport has so far handled only domestic scheduled flights, with international operations limited to occasional charter services.
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