Kathmandu: Direct flights from Pokhara International Airport to Paro, Bhutan, officially began on Tuesday, marking a key milestone for Nepal’s newest international airport.
Universal Tours and Travels (UTT) had earlier announced four charter flights starting September 28, but the schedule was repeatedly pushed back due to “various reasons,” including the unrest in Nepal in early October.
Pokhara Metropolitan City Mayor Dhanraj Acharya confirmed the formal inauguration of the route on Tuesday. The first Bhutan Airlines aircraft arrived empty from Paro and departed with nine passengers and crew, landing safely in Bhutan.
Acharya said the initial group trip planned for Tuesday could not proceed due to technical issues but expressed confidence that regular flights would start soon. “Bhutan Airlines and UTT are committed to ensuring consistent operations in the coming days,” he said.
Bhutan Airlines has informed that regular commercial flights will resume from April 2026. The carrier operates a 126-seat aircraft, and UTT has prepared a four-night, five-day travel package for travelers.
Pokhara Tourism Council Chair Taranath Pahari said the new route will strengthen tourism ties between Nepal and Bhutan. “Direct flights will significantly benefit tourism in both countries,” he said.
The Nepal government has introduced multiple incentives to promote international flights from Pokhara and Bhairahawa. Since August 12, 2024, parking, landing, and navigation fees for international flights have been fully waived. Airlines also get major discounts on passenger service charges, while only 25 percent of the standard ground-handling fee from Nepal Airlines remains applicable.
Bhutan Airlines currently operates four weekly flights to Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport. Pokhara has seen limited but growing international activity, including a charter flight from Sichuan Airlines in June and regular Pokhara–Chengdu services by Himalayan Airlines. Sichuan Airlines is also exploring a Pokhara–Sichuan–Australia connection, while Himalayan Airlines operates a weekly Pokhara–Lhasa commercial service.
With these additions, aviation officials expect Pokhara International Airport to see increased movement after months of underuse. Opened on January 1, 2023, the airport spans 3,900 ropanis, cost Rs 2.2 billion, and features a 2,500-meter runway capable of handling 800,000 passengers annually.