Flydubai to Launch Regular Flights Between Pokhara and Dubai

Dragon Media News Desk

Flydubai is scheduled to begin regular flights on the Dubai–Pokhara–Dubai route on Wednesday, marking a significant development for Pokhara International Airport, which has struggled to sustain regular international services since opening in January 2023. The new connection is expected to support tourism, trade and international travel from western Nepal.

According to airport General Manager Jagannath Niraula, the Flydubai aircraft is scheduled to land in Pokhara at 6:15 p.m. and depart for Dubai with passengers at 7:15 p.m. Airport authorities have arranged a ceremonial water-cannon salute for the arriving aircraft. Preparations for immigration, customs, cargo handling and passenger services have been completed.

Although Pokhara International Airport has handled several international flights since its inauguration, those services did not develop into sustained regular operations. Local tourism businesses hope the new route will improve access to Pokhara for international visitors and strengthen the city’s connections with overseas markets. Tourism representatives have also prepared a traditional welcome and farewell for arriving and departing passengers.

Hari Bhandari, chief of the Pokhara Airport Customs Office, said arrangements were in place for passenger clearance, revenue collection and the facilitation of legitimate trade. The District Security Committee has inspected the airport ahead of the launch. Chief District Officer Kumansingh Gurung said the necessary security measures had been completed.

Former Pokhara Tourism Council president Pomanarayan Shrestha said Dubai’s role as a major international aviation hub could help connect Pokhara with destinations across the world. The service is also expected to make travel more convenient for Nepalis from the region who travel to the United Arab Emirates for employment and education.