Himalaya Airlines, the Nepal-Tibet joint venture carrier, has announced the launch of direct scheduled flights between Kathmandu's Tribhuvan International Airport and Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport in China, beginning Wednesday.

With the inauguration of the service, Himalaya Airlines will become the first and only commercial carrier to operate direct scheduled flights on the Kathmandu–Shenzhen–Kathmandu route. The airline said the new service will establish a strategically important air corridor linking Nepal with one of China's most dynamic economic and technological hubs.

Shenzhen, often referred to as China's Silicon Valley and the country's first Special Economic Zone, is a global centre for technology, manufacturing, finance, and innovation. Home to some of the world's leading technology companies, the city also has a rapidly growing base of outbound travellers and business professionals.

According to the airline, the direct air link marks a significant step in strengthening Nepal-China bilateral relations and enhancing people-to-people connectivity.

"The timing of this launch carries additional strategic value," the airline said in a statement. "Commencing during the early summer season—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 broader economic recovery and growth objectives."

Himalaya Airlines will initially operate two flights a week on the route. Flights from Kathmandu will depart every Tuesday and Thursday, while return services from Shenzhen will operate every Wednesday and Friday.

The airline said it will review passenger demand and load factors and increase flight frequencies accordingly in the future.