KATHMANDU: The government has approved a package of fee waivers for international airlines operating from Pokhara International Airport, aiming to attract more foreign carriers and expand international air connectivity from Nepal’s tourism capital.
A Cabinet meeting on Wednesday decided to waive landing, parking and navigation fees in full for international airlines operating at the airport until the end of September 2028. The government has also approved a 50 percent discount on ground handling charges.
Pokhara Metropolitan City Mayor Dhanraj Acharya welcomed the decision, expressing confidence that the incentives would help expand regular international services, including the upcoming Pokhara-Dubai route, while encouraging additional foreign airlines to begin operations.
“The decision will make an important contribution to tourism promotion, improved air connectivity, and overall economic activity,” Acharya said.
The incentives come as Flydubai prepares to launch direct Dubai-Pokhara flights on September 23. The direct connection to Dubai, one of the world’s major aviation transit hubs, is expected to integrate Pokhara into the global air transport network.
Despite being operational for nearly three years, Pokhara International Airport has yet to secure regular scheduled international flights.
Airport General Manager Jagannath Niraula said Flydubai has already opened ticket bookings after receiving approval for its Dubai-Pokhara-Dubai flight schedule.
According to Niraula, the new route will offer travelers from Pokhara easier access to destinations in Europe, North America and other regions via Dubai, while reducing travel time and overall travel costs.
The service is also expected to benefit foreign tourists visiting Pokhara and nearby tourist destinations, as well as Nepalis traveling abroad for employment, education, business and leisure.
The Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal granted Flydubai approval in May to operate daily Dubai-Pokhara-Dubai flights. The airline has since published its flight schedule.
The government’s move follows its commitment in the Fiscal Year 2026/27 policy and program to pursue diplomatic initiatives to attract international airlines to Pokhara International Airport.
Built with an investment of around Rs 22 billion, the airport has so far been limited to domestic operations, apart from occasional charter flights to neighboring countries.
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