First Chengdu-Pokhara regular commercial flight lands, boosting Nepal’s tourism hopes

March 18, Kathmandu: The first regular commercial chartered flight from Chengdu, China, landed at Pokhara International Airport on Tuesday morning, carrying 128 passengers.

The passengers were welcomed by the Chinese Ambassador to Nepal Chen Song, according to a video posted by the Chinese Embassy.

Operated by Sichuan Airlines, the flight will soon depart with over 120 passengers, marking a key step for the airport’s international operations.

This weekly Tuesday service, backed by the Pokhara Tourism Council and Nepal Tourism Board, supports the ‘Visit Nepal 2025’ and ‘Pokhara Tourism Year’ campaigns. Built with a $215.96 million Chinese loan and assistance, the airport has faced challenges since 2023 but aims to boost tourism, especially with 101,879 Chinese visitors in 2024.