Introduction

Flying into Bhutan's Paro International Airport (PBH) is not for the faint of heart. On a typical day, the cockpit is adorned with a Buddha figurine, watching over as pilots navigate the challenges of landing the A319 on a runway nestled between towering 18,000-foot peaks. Passengers, some nervously gripping their armrests, often erupt into applause once the plane touches down safely.

Regarded as one of the most technically demanding landings in the world, Paro International Airport is more than just a gateway to Bhutan—it's a blend of breathtaking geography and aviation artistry. With a short runway that requires expert maneuvering, only a select group of pilots—around 50—are certified to land at this remarkable airport.

What Makes Paro Airport So Unique?

Paro’s distinctive landing conditions stem from its classification as a Category C airport. This designation means pilots must undergo specialized training, flying manually without the assistance of radar. Captain Chimi Dorji, a veteran of Bhutan's national airline, Druk Air, emphasizes the importance of local area knowledge. "If you stray even slightly, you could end up landing on a house," he warns, making local terrain familiarity essential for safe flights.

Situated in a mountainous region between India and China, Bhutan’s capital city, Thimphu, sits at 7,710 feet (2,350 meters), while Paro is slightly lower at 7,382 feet. At these elevations, the air is thinner, which impacts how planes maneuver. Pilots must fly faster through the air, presenting yet another layer of complexity to the landing process.

Weather: A Crucial Factor for Safe Landings

Weather plays a significant role in operations at Paro. To ensure optimal safety, all scheduled flights ideally land before noon. Strong winds that develop later in the day can make landings exceptionally tricky. "Mornings are much calmer," Dorji reassures, recalling the turbulence that presents challenges as the sun rises.

The monsoon season, from June to August, poses additional hurdles. Thunderstorms can become severe, complete with hail the size of golf balls. Pilots must be adept at making calculated decisions about when to take off and when it’s better to stay grounded.

A Glimpse Into Bhutan's Rising Aviation Industry

While flying into Paro is a thrilling adventure, the aviation landscape in Bhutan is evolving. A new mindfulness city is being developed in Gelephu, which will feature expansion plans for its airport. Unlike Paro's mountainous terrain, Gelephu's flat landscape allows for longer, more accommodating runways suitable for larger aircraft, potentially opening up exciting new travel routes.

Since Druk Air's establishment in 1981, Bhutan's aviation sector has been gaining momentum. Presently, a handful of licensed pilots serve the nation, but that number is expected to rise. The government aims to train more local pilots, seeing a growing interest in recruiting from within the country instead of relying heavily on overseas talent.

Captain Dorji, a pivotal figure in pilot training, believes the future is bright for aviation in Bhutan. "I consider myself the bridge between the old generation and the new one," he explains. With a goal of doubling the current number of licensed pilots in the coming years, Bhutan's skies may soon see an even broader spectrum of aviators navigating the challenges of one of the world’s most breathtaking airports.

Prepare for an Adventure!

For travel enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike, experiencing a landing at Paro International Airport is an exhilarating feat that few can achieve. So, buckle up and get ready for an unforgettable journey into the heart of Bhutan, where the beauty of the Himalayas meets the skill of an elite group of pilots!