Dhaka eyes direct Himalaya Airlines flights to Cox's Bazar

Civil Aviation Minister M Rashiduzzaman Millat has expressed hope that Nepal’s Himalaya Airlines will introduce direct flights to Cox’s Bazar following the opening of the international airport there next month.

He made the remarks during a courtesy call by Nepalese Ambassador to Bangladesh Ghanshyam Bhandari at his office at the secretariat on Wednesday afternoon, according to a ministry press release.

Millat said the opening of Cox’s Bazar International Airport would create new opportunities for Nepalese tourists to travel directly to the coastal city and could pave the way for greater tourism cooperation between the two countries.
He added Himalaya Airlines could consider launching direct services to Cox’s Bazar in this context.

The Nepalese envoy expressed interest in introducing Biman Bangladesh Airlines flights on the Dhaka-Pokhara route.
During the meeting, the two sides discussed ways to strengthen bilateral relations and expand cooperation in tourism and aviation sector. They also explored opportunities to increase tourist exchanges, improve connectivity and undertake joint initiatives to promote tourism.

Both sides expressed optimism that stronger air links and closer tourism cooperation would further deepen the friendly relations between Bangladesh and Nepal.

Cox’s Bazar is home to one of the world’s longest natural sea beaches, stretching about 120 kilometres. It is the country’s most popular tourist destination, with nearby attractions including Inani, Himchhari and St. Martin’s Island.
Pokhara, the capital of Nepal’s Gandaki Province, is located about 200 kilometres west of Kathmandu. One of Nepal’s most popular tourist destinations, it lies beside Phewa Lake at the foot of the Annapurna range and is known as a gateway to trekking and adventure tourism. Pokhara International Airport was inaugurated in January 2023.