Visitors can look forward to a brand new experience at Paro International Airport
Bhutan's Paro International Airport was given a major facelift.
Thanks to His Majesty King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, Paro Airport now boasts a new look. Visitors flying into Bhutan can look forward to a fresh experience at its national aviation facility.
Bhutan took advantage of the COVID-19 pandemic and plunged itself into revamping Paro Airport's infrastructure and aesthetics. Yap Dhondup Gyaltshen, Drukair's Chief Pilot, was behind the transformation of the international airport. The Department of Air Transport is also working to step up airport services which include a completely paperless system to provide a seamless airport experience for travellers.
The new concept at Paro Airport focuses on promoting the unique blend of traditional and modernity. His Majesty the King inspired the concept to reflect the country's art, architecture and beauty as visitors walked through its arrival doors.
Upon receiving the Royal Command, Voluntary Artists' Studio of Bhutan (VAST)'s leader, Kama Wangdi and about 60 young artists got to work. The team worked round the clock to display beautiful Bhutanese artworks throughout the airport, transforming the airport into the largest art gallery and exhibition space in the country.
For a country as serene as Bhutan, the art pieces definitely enhance the calming effects for visitors. The airport can sometimes be a stressful place but art often acts as a comfort, distraction and entertainment for travellers. Art exhibits also enable visitors to spend time learning more about the local culture. The impressive artworks at Paro Airport certainly provide visitors with a taste of what lies beyond the airport.
Not only can you admire the beautiful artworks of Bhutanese youth at Paro Airport, but you can also connect directly with the artists by scanning a QR code next to the paintings.
Another special feature in the airport is a children's corner known as the Gyalsey Happy Brush Corner where visitors can paint mounted traditional masks, postcards, and canvases. You can also collect personal stamps using traditional Bhutanese art materials.
You can also find One Gewog One Product (OGOP) Shop in Paro Airport. OGOP, an initiative of the Queen's Project Office, launched its airport shop and website, during Their Majesties visit.
Introducing the latest addition to Drukair, the Airbus A320neo
On 12 October, Their Majesties graced the formal inauguration of Drukair's fifth aircraft — Airbus A320neo — named A5-JKW in honour of King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck. The Airbus A320neo was ordered in March 2018 at the Singapore Airshow and delivered to Drukair in April 2020. During the pandemic, her new capacity was especially useful for the airline as the airline executed long haul repatriation flights for Bhutanese citizens from various cities in the middle east.
These are just the beginning of a new era for Bhutan's aviation industry.
The next time when you visit Bhutan, remember to look out for the stimulating artistic expressions of the Kingdom.
Watch the video below to get a glimpse of Paro Airport
Support Bhutanese art
In the meantime, if you'll like to support the young Bhutanese artists and VAST Bhutan, you may consider purchasing a copy of Bhutan Travelog here. SGD10 proceeds will go toward supporting VAST Bhutan, the non-profit organisation championing the art scene in Bhutan.
