POKHARA: Flydubai, a Dubai-based airline owned by the government of the United Arab Emirates, is beginning regular flights on the Dubai-Pokhara-Dubai route from Pokhara International Airport today.
The launch of regular international service has raised hopes among tourism entrepreneurs, businesspeople and local residents, who have long been awaiting sustained international connectivity from the regional international airport.
Pokhara International Airport came into operation on January 1, 2023, but regular international flights have yet to be established. Although several airlines have operated international flights from Pokhara in the past, those services were not sustained on a regular basis.
Airport General Manager Jagannath Niraula said all necessary preparations and infrastructure for international operations, including immigration, customs, cargo and passenger services, have been completed.
According to Niraula, the Flydubai aircraft is scheduled to arrive in Pokhara at 6:15 pm and depart for Dubai with passengers at 7:15 pm. The aircraft will receive a water-cannon salute upon arrival.
Tourism and business representatives in Pokhara are preparing to welcome arriving passengers and bid farewell to departing travelers with khadas, traditional ceremonial shawls, and flower garlands.
Former Pokhara Tourism Council Chairperson Pom Narayan Shrestha expressed confidence that the regular service would strengthen Pokhara’s international connectivity, noting that Dubai is a major global aviation hub and Flydubai serves more than 120 destinations.
The new service is also expected to make travel more convenient for Nepali workers and students traveling to Dubai.
Meanwhile, officials said the District Security Committee has inspected the airport and made the necessary security arrangements for the operation of international flights.
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