Pokhara-Dubai flights take off. Can the $216 million airport shake off its debt-burden tag ?
Summary
Flydubai has launched inaugural direct flights between Pokhara and Dubai, giving travelers from western Nepal a faster route to overseas destinations and raising hopes for the long-struggling Pokhara International Airport. Tourism operators say the new service could boost connectivity, foreign arrivals and the airport’s commercial viability.
Key Points
- Flydubai’s inaugural Dubai-Pokhara service marked the first scheduled international passenger flights at Pokhara International Airport since it opened in January 2023.
- The airport, built at a cost of $216 million with Chinese financing, has faced criticism over debt burden and underuse, with questions about its long-term viability.
- Passengers, workers and tourism entrepreneurs welcomed the direct link, saying it saves time and money compared with traveling through Kathmandu.
- Local tourism leaders and aviation officials hope the route will become sustainable and attract more international airlines to Pokhara.
