Flydubai is set to begin daily direct flights between Pokhara and Dubai from September 23, following approval from the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN).

According to Jagannath Niraula, General Manager of Pokhara International Airport, the airline's flight schedule was officially approved on Monday, paving the way for regular international operations on the Dubai–Pokhara–Dubai route.

"The flight schedule has already been approved, and Flydubai will commence daily services from September 23," Niraula said.

Before receiving approval, a Flydubai technical team conducted a comprehensive inspection of Pokhara International Airport, assessing its security, safety standards, and operational readiness.

The approval comes shortly after the government announced plans in its fiscal year 2083/84 policy and program to attract international airlines to Pokhara International Airport through diplomatic initiatives.

Pokhara Metropolitan City Mayor Dhanraj Acharya described the development as a significant breakthrough for Nepal's third international gateway.

According to Acharya, the direct Dubai connection will not only enhance Pokhara's international profile but also boost tourism, expand economic opportunities, and help decentralize air traffic currently concentrated in Kathmandu.

He noted that direct connectivity with Dubai would provide Pokhara with access to more than 300 global destinations across the Middle East, Europe, and Africa through Flydubai's network and connecting services.

Despite being inaugurated on January 1, 2023, Pokhara International Airport has so far struggled to attract regular international commercial flights. Apart from a limited number of charter services, the airport has primarily been handling domestic operations.

The airport, which was constructed with an investment of approximately Rs 22 billion, has faced challenges in achieving its intended role as an international aviation hub.

In March 2025, Himalaya Airlines launched regular Pokhara-Lhasa flights, becoming the first airline to operate scheduled international services from the airport. However, the route was later suspended on March 23 due to operational and commercial challenges.

Tourism entrepreneurs and local stakeholders have long awaited regular international flights, believing they could significantly increase foreign tourist arrivals and generate economic benefits for the region.

Industry representatives estimate that nearly Rs 100 billion has been invested in Pokhara's tourism sector in anticipation of enhanced international connectivity following the airport's construction.

Business leaders have also urged the government to simplify aviation regulations and facilitate direct international operations to key cities in India and China to maximize the airport's potential.

The launch of Flydubai's daily service is expected to be a major step toward transforming Pokhara International Airport into a fully functional international aviation gateway.