Bhutan’s air network is small but vital, linking remote valleys and the capital across rugged, mountainous terrain. Flights here often depend on weather and runway length, so airports serve as both practical transport hubs and lifelines for local communities.
There are 4 Airports in Bhutan, ranging from Bathpalathang Airport to Yongphulla Airport. For each one, you’ll find below Codes (IATA / ICAO),Location,Status / runway (m).
Which airports in Bhutan handle regular scheduled flights?
Paro International is the primary airport for most scheduled international and many domestic services; other airports may have limited or seasonal commercial flights depending on airline routes and weather, so check current timetables before you travel.
How should travelers prepare for flights to these airports?
Confirm flight status in advance, allow extra time for transfers, pack light because some domestic services have strict weight limits, and be ready for possible weather-related delays—short runways and mountainous approaches can affect operations.
Airports in Bhutan
| Name | Codes (IATA / ICAO) | Location | Status / runway (m) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paro Airport | PBH / VQPR | Paro, Paro | International / 2,265 |
| Bathpalathang Airport | BUT / VQBT | Jakar, Bumthang | Domestic / 1,200 |
| Gelephu Airport | GLU / VQGP | Gelephu, Sarpang | Domestic / 1,500 |
| Yongphulla Airport | YON / VQTY | Trashigang, Trashigang | Domestic / 1,500 |
Images and Descriptions
Paro Airport
Paro Airport is Bhutan’s main international airport and the country’s primary air gateway. It sits in a deep Himalayan valley at high elevation. It has a single paved runway and handles international and domestic flights. Approaches are steep and require specially trained pilots. Include Paro because it is the principal entry and exit point for most visitors to Bhutan.
Bathpalathang Airport
Bathpalathang Airport (Bumthang) is a domestic airport serving central Bhutan. It sits near Jakar in the Bumthang district. It has a short paved runway and handles limited scheduled flights by turboprop aircraft. It supports tourism and local travel to the cultural heart of Bhutan. Operations can be seasonal and depend on weather and demand.
Gelephu Airport
Gelephu Airport serves southern Bhutan near the town of Gelephu and the Indian border. It operates as a domestic airport with a paved runway for regional flights. It improves access to the south and helps link remote districts to Paro and other towns. The airport is important for trade, emergency access, and regional connectivity.
Yongphulla Airport
Yongphulla Airport (Yonphula) serves eastern Bhutan near Trashigang. It has a shorter runway and primarily handles domestic turboprop services. The airport improves access to the eastern districts and supports local travel and relief operations. Flights are limited and often depend on seasonal weather and operational planning.
