Pokhara International Airport (PHH)

Common Complaints

• Limited Amenities and Food Options: A recurring complaint is the very limited number of amenities, with only a single café and souvenir shop available for waiting passengers. Dedicated rest areas or sleeping zones are also lacking.
• Frequent Flight Delays: Travelers often experience frequent flight delays, which, coupled with limited facilities, makes the waiting experience less comfortable.
• High Taxi Charges and Lack of Public Transport: While taxis and private car hire are readily available (10-15 minutes to city center), their high charges are a common concern. Public buses are not considered a practical option for airport transfers.
• Underutilization as an International Airport: Despite its "international" designation, the airport primarily handles domestic flights (mostly ATR planes), with very few international operations due to various factors, including geopolitical issues, payload restrictions for larger aircraft, and lack of additional air corridors. This has led to concerns about its commercial viability and operational costs.
• Corruption Allegations and Construction Quality: There have been significant and widely reported allegations of corruption and irregularities in the airport's construction, raising questions about the quality of materials and financial management.

Overall, Pokhara International Airport is a modern and visually appealing gateway to Pokhara for domestic travelers, offering efficient services and stunning mountain views. However, its significant shortcomings in international connectivity, limited amenities, and lingering corruption concerns pose challenges to its full potential as a major international hub. Travelers should be prepared for basic facilities and potential delays, especially if expecting diverse international connections.