Drukair Expands Fleet with Order for Five Airbus Aircraft

Drukair, the national carrier of Bhutan, has announced a significant fleet expansion by placing an order for five Airbus aircraft, which includes three A320neo and two A321XLR jets. This strategic move aims to enhance the airline’s operational capacity and broaden its international reach.

The A321XLR’s extended range will enable Drukair to introduce longer routes, potentially opening new destinations and increasing connectivity for the landlocked nation. As Bhutan relies heavily on air travel for international access, these new aircraft will play a crucial role in facilitating greater travel options. Deliveries for the new aircraft are scheduled to begin in 2030.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for this order was signed between Drukair and Airbus on July 22, 2024, during the Farnborough International Airshow. Drukair CEO Tandi Wangchuk expressed enthusiasm about the order, stating, “We are thrilled to embark on this new chapter in Drukair’s history, which dovetails perfectly with the development of the Gelephu Mindfulness City and work to expand the Gelephu airport. Our investment in these state-of-the-art aircraft underscores our dedication to supporting Bhutan’s vision of holistic and mindful development.”

Drukair plans to operate these new Airbus aircraft primarily from Paro International Airport (PBH) and the upcoming Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC) airport, which is being developed as a future economic hub for Bhutan. The airline aims to enhance its air links to Europe, Southeast Asia, and Australia from these key locations.

Currently headquartered in Paro, Drukair operates a fleet of four Airbus A320 family aircraft, comprising three A319s and a single A320. With the addition of these new aircraft, Drukair is well-positioned to strengthen its service offerings and connect Bhutan more effectively to the global market, contributing to the nation’s economic growth and development.

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