Druk Air vs Bhutan Airlines
Bhutan has exactly one international airport (Paro). Two carriers fly it: the state-owned Druk Air and the private Bhutan Airlines (formerly Tashi Air). Routes overlap on Bangkok, Delhi, and Kathmandu; each has unique destinations. This page picks a better carrier based on your origin city.
From where?
Druk Air (Royal Bhutan Airlines)
- Founded: 1981 (state-owned)
- Fleet: Airbus A319, A320neo, ATR 42-500
- Routes: Bangkok, Delhi, Kathmandu, Singapore, Kolkata, Guwahati, Mumbai, Dhaka (seasonal)
- Domestic: Paro–Bumthang (subject to demand)
- Tagline: "Your Dragon Airline" — the national carrier
Bhutan Airlines
- Founded: 2013 (private, formerly Tashi Air)
- Fleet: Airbus A319, A320
- Routes: Bangkok, Delhi, Kathmandu, Kolkata, Singapore (seasonal)
- Domestic: Limited; mostly international
- Tagline: Often slightly cheaper on Bangkok / Kolkata
What this solves
Most "how to get to Bhutan" pages tell you to fly Druk Air. Reality: Bhutan Airlines often has lower fares from Bangkok and Kolkata, and on some dates the only available seat is on a different carrier. This page picks the cheaper option for your route.
How to read the result
Both airlines operate into Paro — same airport, same challenging approach. The difference is fare, schedule, and schedule reliability. Druk Air has more frequent flights; Bhutan Airlines sometimes has cheaper promotional fares.
Limitations
- Paro approach is weather-dependent. Both carriers cancel flights in fog or heavy rain — same risk on either.
- Fares shown are typical economy one-way / round-trip reference, not real-time prices.
- Bhutan Airlines seasonal routes may pause; verify before booking.
FAQ
Is Paro airport as scary as the videos?
It is one of the world's most challenging airports. Only ~30 certified captains fly the approach. Visibility, tailwinds, and afternoon cloud cover all cause delays. Build a buffer day.
Should I book Druk Air or Bhutan Airlines?
From Bangkok or Kolkata: compare both. From Delhi, Kathmandu, Singapore: Druk Air typically has more daily options. From Guwahati: Druk Air is usually the only carrier.
Sources
- Druk Air official schedule (drukair.com.bt)
- Bhutan Airlines official schedule (bhutanairlines.com)
- Paro airport approach documentation (Department of Air Transport)