Key Takeaways:

• Flydubai opens Pokhara-Dubai bookings until October 2027
• Tourism sector sees move as a sign of long-term commitment
• More than 3,100 passengers have arrived in Pokhara from Dubai
• Route provides Pokhara's first scheduled international air connection from the new airport

KATHMANDU, OCTOBER 15 Flydubai's decision to open ticket bookings for its Pokhara-Dubai service until October 30, 2027, has boosted confidence among tourism entrepreneurs who see the move as a sign the city's first scheduled international route may become a long-term connection. The extension comes just weeks after the airline launched international flights from Pokhara International Airport. Tourism operators say the longer booking window has eased concerns about the route's sustainability and strengthened hopes of attracting more international visitors and investment. The service has already brought more than 3,100 passengers from Dubai to Pokhara, compared with 1,423 travellers flying from Pokhara to Dubai. Tourism entrepreneurs expect outbound numbers to rise after the Dashain festival season and believe the route will gradually gain momentum. Despite one weather-related cancellation, flights have otherwise operated regularly since the service began, according to airport officials. Flydubai currently operates daily flights using a Boeing 737 MAX 8, linking Pokhara to Dubai's extensive international network. For Pokhara, which opened its international airport in 2023 but struggled to attract scheduled overseas carriers, Flydubai's arrival is being viewed as a breakthrough. Tourism stakeholders say continued cooperation among airlines, government agencies and local businesses will be crucial to ensuring the route's long-term success.