In a significant development for Nepal’s aviation and tourism sectors, Pokhara International Airport welcomed its first scheduled passenger flight from China on March 31, 2025. This event marks a pivotal moment for the airport, which has faced challenges in attracting regular international flights since its inauguration on January 1, 2023.
Historic Flight Details
The inaugural flight was operated by Himalaya Airlines, a Nepal-Tibet joint venture. The Airbus A319 departed from Lhasa Gonggar Airport at 2:39 PM Chinese local time and landed in Pokhara at 1:56 PM Nepali local time. The aircraft carried 107 passengers, comprising 32 Chinese nationals and 75 Nepali citizens. This operation signifies the commencement of what is anticipated to be a series of regular flights connecting the capital of tourism and Lhasa.
Strategic Importance of Pokhara International Airport
Constructed with an investment of $215.96 million, funded by Beijing, Pokhara International Airport was envisioned to transform Pokhara into a direct international gateway, reducing reliance on Kathmandu for tourist inflow. The airport serves as a crucial access point to the Annapurna Circuit, a globally renowned trekking route, thereby holding substantial potential to boost Nepal’s tourism industry.
Here’s a more detailed look at its strategic importance:
1. Tourism Hub and Gateway to the Annapurna Region:
- Reduced Dependency on Kathmandu:The airport aims to make Pokhara, known as Nepal’s tourism capital, less reliant on Kathmandu for international arrivals, allowing direct flights to the city and the surrounding Annapurna region.
- Annapurna Circuit Access:Pokhara serves as a gateway to the world-famous Annapurna Circuit trekking route, and the new airport is expected to facilitate easier access for tourists.
- Hospitality Industry Boost:The construction of the airport has spurred significant investments in the hospitality industry in the region.
2. Geopolitical and Economic Significance:
- India’s Perspective:India continues to deny air entry routes to both Pokhara and Bhairahawa International Airport.
- Chinese Funding and “Visit Nepal 2025”:The airport was funded by a soft loan from China, and the first international flight from Lhasa landed at Pokhara International Airport by Himalaya Airlines, marking a milestone in connectivity and friendship between China and Nepal.
- “Belt and Road Initiative” (BRI) Connection:The Chinese Embassy described the project as a flagship BRI project, though Nepal’s government hasn’t officially acknowledged this connection.
- Economic Development:The airport is expected to boost Nepal’s economy and the local tourism trade.
Incentives to Boost Air Traffic
To encourage airlines to operate flights to and from Pokhara, the airport authorities have introduced several incentives. These include waivers on landing, parking, and ground handling fees for a period of two years, along with exemptions from passenger service charges for departing tourists. Such measures aim to make Pokhara an attractive destination for international carriers and travelers alike.
Future Prospects and Challenges
Himalaya Airlines has expressed intentions to increase flight frequencies based on demand and plans to expand operations to ten destinations in China. The ambitious goal is to attract one million Chinese tourists annually, leveraging the strategic location and facilities of Pokhara International Airport.
Despite these positive developments, the airport has encountered challenges, particularly in securing regular international flights. Factors such as airspace restrictions have impacted operations. For instance, India’s refusal to allow the use of its airspace for flights to Pokhara has posed operational hurdles.
Financial Considerations
The construction of Pokhara International Airport was financed through a loan agreement with China’s Export-Import Bank, amounting to 1.37 billion Chinese yuan. The Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal is responsible for repaying this loan by 2036. Given the financial implications, Nepal has initiated diplomatic discussions to convert the loan into a grant to alleviate the economic burden.
Looking Ahead
The successful landing of the first scheduled flight from China at Pokhara International Airport represents a hopeful advancement for Nepal’s tourism and aviation sectors. While challenges remain, particularly concerning international flight frequency and financial obligations, this milestone reflects the potential of Pokhara as a significant international travel hub. Continued efforts in diplomatic negotiations and strategic planning will be essential to realize the airport’s envisioned role in boosting Nepal’s connectivity and economic growth.
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