Gandaki, January 10: Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation Badri Prasad Pandey has said that regular flights will begin from Pokhara International Airport within a few months.
At an interactive program on ‘Gandaki’s Tourism and Economic Flight’ organized by ‘Golden Nepal Online Private Limited’ in Pokhara today, he said that the national flag carrier Himalayan Airlines is preparing for a Pokhara-Lwasa flight.
“Himalayan Airlines is starting flights within a few months, the process of obtaining approval for that has reached the final stage, the government is also requesting Nepal Airlines to operate flights to international destinations from Pokhara, even if it means cutting flights elsewhere,” Minister Pandey said. He said the government is taking initiatives to start international flight services from Pokhara to other countries, including India, he said.
Pandey informed that the issue was also discussed seriously in a recent meeting with the Indian Minister of Civil Aviation and the Chinese Ambassador. Stating that the future of Pokhara International Airport is bright, he said that there should be no disappointment that the airport cannot be operated.
“The airport was built with the 50th anniversary in mind, there is no reason to be disappointed, it is possible and possible to operate the airport,” Minister Pandey said. “Since Pokhara is the country’s tourism hub, we expect that regular international flights from the airport will strengthen the economy and promote tourism.” He said that doubts about the technical aspects of the airport have also been removed after charter flights from various destinations in China were launched.
Economic Impact of Pokhara International Airport
The Pokhara Regional International Airport (PRIA) is a transformative infrastructure project for Nepal, with significant implications for the country’s economy, tourism, and regional development. Below are the key aspects of its economic impact:
1. Boost to Tourism
- Gateway to Annapurna: Pokhara is the primary entry point for trekkers heading to the Annapurna and Mustang regions. The new airport makes it more accessible for international tourists.
- Increased Arrivals: Direct international flights eliminate the need for tourists to transit through Kathmandu, reducing travel time and encouraging more visits.
- Revenue Growth: Enhanced tourist inflow will boost revenue for hotels, restaurants, trekking agencies, and other businesses in Pokhara and surrounding areas.
2. Regional Economic Development
- Employment Opportunities: The airport has created jobs during its construction and operational phases, from skilled labor to service industry roles.
- Increased Investment: Improved connectivity attracts domestic and international investment in tourism infrastructure, real estate, and other sectors.
- Local Businesses: Growth in ancillary industries such as transport, handicrafts, and cultural services.
3. Improved Trade and Cargo Services
- The airport is equipped with cargo handling facilities, allowing local products like handicrafts, tea, and agricultural goods to reach international markets efficiently.
- This reduces dependency on Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu for exports.
4. Reduced Pressure on Tribhuvan International Airport
- Pokhara Airport helps decongest Kathmandu’s airport, improving overall air traffic management in Nepal.
- This is critical as Nepal experiences growing air traffic due to increased tourism and business activities.
5. Support for the Aviation Industry
- Airlines can now expand their operations in western Nepal, creating competition and potentially lowering airfares.
- Opportunities for international airlines to introduce direct routes to Pokhara.
Challenges to Realizing Full Economic Benefits:
- Limited International Flights: As of now, the airport has few direct international flights. Encouraging airlines to operate direct routes is essential.
- Airspace and Safety Issues: Nepal’s mountainous terrain presents navigational challenges, requiring advanced safety systems and pilot training.
- Seasonal Tourism Dependency: Tourism in Pokhara is highly seasonal, with peaks during spring and autumn. Efforts are needed to promote year-round tourism.
- Infrastructure in Pokhara: The city’s roads, accommodations, and other facilities need to match the anticipated rise in visitors.
Long-Term Potential:
- PRIA positions Pokhara as a global tourism hub and strengthens Nepal’s overall aviation infrastructure.
- With strategic planning, the airport could serve as a regional transit hub, attracting flights from South Asia, Southeast Asia, and beyond.
- It will also contribute to Nepal’s goal of welcoming 2 million tourists annually by 2030, as outlined in its national tourism strategy.
