Government Waives Airport Charges for International Airlines Operating from Pokhara and Gautam Buddha Airports Until September 2028

The Government of Nepal has approved a package of incentives for international airlines operating scheduled flights from Pokhara International Airport and Gautam Buddha International Airport, aiming to boost international air connectivity and strengthen the country's tourism sector.

At a Cabinet meeting held on Wednesday, the government endorsed a proposal from the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation to grant a full waiver on parking, landing, and navigation fees for airlines operating scheduled international flights from the two airports.

The incentives will remain in effect until the end of Bhadra 2085 (mid-September 2028) under the Nepali calendar.

In addition, the Cabinet approved a 50 percent discount on ground handling charges for eligible international airlines.

The government expects the incentive package to encourage more international carriers to launch regular services from Pokhara and Gautam Buddha International Airports, both of which have struggled to attract sustained international operations since their inauguration.

Officials believe the fee waivers will help improve Nepal's international air connectivity, increase tourist arrivals, promote regional economic activity, and maximize the utilization of the country's two newest international airports.