Bhutan is set to revolutionize its aviation sector with the unveiling of Gelephu International Airport, slated to open in 2029. This ambitious infrastructure project aims to enhance the country’s connectivity, providing a modern air hub to serve both international and domestic flights. Currently, access to Bhutan is restricted to a few flights per day at Paro International Airport, which is located between two Himalayan peaks near the capital, Thimphu. The airport’s challenging location and terrain limit its capacity, with small aircraft being the primary mode of transportation.
New Airport to Enhance Connectivity
Once completed, Gelephu International Airport will be a major development for Bhutan’s tourism and trade industries. Designed to accommodate 123 daily flights and up to 1.3 million passengers annually by 2040, the new airport will significantly increase access to the country and reduce the operational constraints faced by Paro International Airport. With Gelephu serving as an alternative gateway, the expansion in capacity will not only facilitate more frequent flights but also improve Bhutan’s connectivity to global markets.
The new air hub will be located in Gelephu, a town in southern Bhutan, which will also benefit from a comprehensive redevelopment project. Bjarke Ingels Group, a renowned architecture firm, is leading the city’s redevelopment, with an emphasis on sustainability and local heritage. The airport itself is being designed by NACO, an aviation engineering firm, as part of a broader effort to modernize Bhutan’s transportation infrastructure.
Sustainability at the Core of Design
In keeping with Bhutan’s commitment to environmental preservation, Gelephu International Airport will incorporate sustainable building materials. The structure will be crafted from sustainably sourced timber, and the airport will feature painted wood carvings by local artists, creating a seamless blend of modernity and cultural heritage. The airport’s design aims to reflect the natural beauty of Bhutan while promoting eco-friendly construction practices.
The natural aesthetic will not only make the airport an architectural highlight but also underscore Bhutan’s vision of maintaining its environmental integrity while expanding its tourism and connectivity infrastructure. The country’s strong environmental policies, including the commitment to maintaining its status as a carbon-negative nation, will guide the airport’s construction and operational practices.
A Vital Project for Bhutan’s Future
The development of Gelephu International Airport represents a crucial step in Bhutan’s efforts to bolster its tourism and economic growth. With the expected increase in passenger traffic, the airport will become a vital hub for regional tourism and a gateway for travelers exploring Bhutan’s majestic landscapes, culture, and heritage. The project will also support Bhutan’s long-term goal of fostering sustainable development while ensuring that its infrastructure meets the growing demands of the aviation sector.
With Gelephu International Airport poised to open in 2029, Bhutan’s aviation landscape is set for a transformation, offering greater connectivity, increased flight capacity, and a more sustainable approach to airport design. The new air hub will play a significant role in connecting Bhutan to the world, boosting tourism, and supporting economic growth for years to come.
