Flydubai has received approval to operate direct flights between Pokhara and Dubai, paving the way for regular international air connectivity from Pokhara International Airport.
According to Pokhara International Airport General Manager Jagannath Niraula, the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) has authorized daily operations on the Pokhara–Dubai–Pokhara route beginning September 23.
“The flight schedule was approved on Monday, and daily flights between Pokhara and Dubai will commence from September 23,” Niraula said.
Technical Inspection Completed
Prior to receiving approval, a technical team from Flydubai, the Dubai-based government-owned carrier, conducted a comprehensive assessment of security, safety, and operational preparedness at Pokhara International Airport.
The inspection was aimed at ensuring the airport met all requirements necessary for the launch of regular international services.
Major Milestone for Nepal’s Third International Airport
Welcoming the development, Pokhara Metropolitan City Mayor Dhana Raj Acharya described the approval as a significant milestone for Nepal’s third international gateway.
He said the direct connection with Dubai would provide access to more than 300 destinations across the Middle East, Europe, and other regions, helping to promote tourism and ease congestion at Kathmandu’s aviation hub.
International Operations Have Been Limited
Although Pokhara International Airport was inaugurated in January 2023 after being built at a cost of around Rs 22 billion, international operations have remained limited, with the majority of flights serving domestic routes.
In 2025, Himalaya Airlines briefly operated international flights on the Pokhara–Lhasa route, but the service was later suspended.
Tourism Sector Welcomes Move
Tourism entrepreneurs have long been advocating for regular international flights from Pokhara, noting that nearly Rs 100 billion has already been invested in tourism-related infrastructure in the city.
Stakeholders have also called for the expansion of air links to major destinations in India and China to maximize the potential of the airport.
The commencement of Flydubai’s daily services is expected to enhance Pokhara’s global connectivity, strengthen tourism, and establish the airport as an important regional aviation hub.
