Drukair Welcomes New Pilatus PC-24, Marking a Boost to Bhutan’s Aviation Capability
Drukair welcomes the new Pilatus PC-24 to its fleet, enhancing Bhutan’s aviation capability with improved short-runway performance, emergency response, and support for national priorities including the Gelephu Mindfulness City.
Drukair, Royal Bhutan Airlines, has marked an important moment in its aviation journey with the arrival of its new Pilatus PC-24 (Reg A5-JUW) at Paro International Airport on 27 November. The addition of the Swiss-manufactured light jet strengthens Bhutan’s national aviation capacity and supports the country’s broader development ambitions.
The aircraft represents an investment of approximately Nu. 1.11 billion and signals a major advancement in Drukair’s long-term plan to enhance flexibility, operational reach, and specialised services within Bhutan and beyond.
Why the Pilatus PC-24 is a Perfect Fit for Bhutan
Often referred to as the “Super Versatile Jet”, the Pilatus PC-24 is an eight-seater twin-engine aircraft built specifically for exceptional short-runway performance—an essential capability for navigating Bhutan’s rugged mountain terrain. With a range of about 3,300 km, the aircraft significantly improves regional mobility and mission-specific travel across the Himalayas.
Its versatility allows it to support several national priorities, including corporate travel linked to the development of the Gelephu Mindfulness City, medical evacuation operations, charter services, and selected domestic missions requiring swift and reliable aviation support.
Traditional Chipdrel Welcome at Paro Airport
The arrival of the aircraft was marked by a traditional chipdrel ceremony at Paro International Airport. The Honorable Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay graced the event as the Chief Guest, together with senior officials from the Royal Government of Bhutan, Druk Holding and Investments, Drukair management, and representatives from the Gelephu Mindfulness City.
The ceremonial welcome underscored the national importance of the milestone and the government’s support for strengthening Bhutan’s aviation infrastructure.
Leadership Perspective: A Strategic Investment for the Nation
Commenting on the induction, Drukair’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr Tandi Wangchuk, shared that the PC-24’s arrival represents “an important milestone not just for Drukair, but for Bhutan’s wider development ambitions.” He highlighted that its ability to operate efficiently in demanding terrain will “support critical national services, provide greater flexibility for corporate and charter travel, and contribute meaningfully to emerging initiatives such as Gelephu Mindfulness City.”
He added, “We are proud to strengthen our fleet in service of the nation.”
Strengthening Bhutan’s Connectivity and Emergency Response
Beyond corporate and specialised services, the PC-24 boosts Bhutan’s emergency response capacity, allowing rapid deployment for medical evacuations and urgent national missions. Its enhanced range and performance elevate Bhutan’s connectivity, ensuring the country remains agile and adaptable as it advances new economic and developmental projects.
The new Drukair Pilatus PC-21 has successfully landed in Yonphula Airport.
About Drukair – Royal Bhutan Airlines
Established in 1981, Drukair Corporation Limited is Bhutan’s national flag carrier. Operating from its hub at Paro International Airport, the airline serves 10 international destinations across South Asia, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East, including India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Thailand, Singapore, and the United Arab Emirates. Drukair also operates three domestic routes within Bhutan and offers helicopter services to extend its capability beyond fixed-wing operations.
