KATHMANDU: Himalaya Airlines has announced the commencement of direct scheduled flight services between Kathmandu and Shenzhen, China, starting June 4, 2026.

With the inaugural service, Himalaya Airlines will become the first and only commercial carrier to operate direct scheduled flights on the Kathmandu–Shenzhen–Kathmandu sector, establishing a new air corridor between Nepal and one of China's most dynamic economic and technological hubs.

Shenzhen, widely regarded as China's Silicon Valley and the country's first Special Economic Zone, is a global centre for technology, manufacturing, finance and innovation. The city is home to leading technology corporations and a rapidly growing base of outbound travellers and business professionals.

The timing of the launch carries additional strategic value. Commencing in early summer — traditionally a lean period for Nepal's tourism industry — the route is expected to provide a meaningful boost to inbound tourism and hospitality-related sectors, contributing positively to Nepal's economic recovery and growth objectives.

Himalaya Airlines will initially operate two weekly frequencies on the sector. The airline has confirmed plans to review and increase operational frequency in response to passenger demand and load factors.

Vijay Shrestha, Vice-President of Himalaya Airlines, said the airline had always pioneered new routes to China, leading ahead of conventional market trends.

"The introduction of the Kathmandu–Shenzhen service is a testament to that commitment. With this route, Himalaya Airlines aims to create memorable travel experiences while upholding the highest standards of safety and service quality," Shrestha said.

Himalaya Airlines is a Nepal-China joint venture international airline established in 2014. It currently operates a fleet of four aircraft: three Airbus A320-214 and one Airbus A319-115, serving destinations in the Middle East and South Asia, including the UAE, Malaysia, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bangladesh and China.

The airline holds several distinctions, including being the first Nepali airline to achieve ISO 9001:2015 QMS certification for air transport services, the first and only Nepali airline to be certified as an IOSA Operator and registered as an IATA member airline, and the first Nepali airline to carry Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) onboard its fleet.