Aviation History
Bhutan's civil aviation history centers on Drukair (Royal Bhutan Airlines), the state flag carrier founded in 1981 and flying since 1983, alongside the private carrier Bhutan Airlines launched in 2011. Paro International Airport, the kingdom's only international gateway, is renowned as one of the world's most technically demanding airports because of its high-altitude Himalayan valley setting, and only a small, specially certified group of pilots is qualified to fly the approach. Bhutan's late entry into commercial aviation reflects its historic policy of gradual, controlled opening to the outside world.
Jamair began flights from Calcutta to a Paro airstrip, opening Bhutan's first scheduled air connection to the outside world.
Drukair (Royal Bhutan Airlines) was established by royal charter on 5 April 1981 as Bhutan's flag carrier.
Drukair's first scheduled flight, Kolkata–Paro on a Dornier 228, launched commercial aviation in Bhutan on 11 February 1983.
Bhutan created a Department of Civil Aviation, which took over airport operation and maintenance responsibilities from Drukair.
The runway at Paro was lengthened to 2,000 meters, though the approach through surrounding Himalayan peaks remained extremely demanding.
Drukair replaced its BAe 146 regional jets with five Airbus A319s, modernizing its fleet.
Tashi Air, branded Bhutan Airlines, began operations as the country's first privately owned carrier, ending Drukair's monopoly.
Drukair added an ATR 42-600 turboprop in 2019 and an Airbus A320neo in 2020, broadening service to smaller domestic airports.
Drukair (Royal Bhutan Airlines) · Bhutan Airlines (Tashi Air)
Wikipedia, Drukair and Bhutan Airlines corporate histories, Bhutan Department of Air Transport