Drukair aircraft parked at Paro International Airport with traditional Bhutanese architecture and mountain backdrop.

Bhutan Flights: Your Ultimate Guide

Flying into Bhutan is a journey in itself—an unforgettable descent between Himalayan ridges, arriving at one of the world's most scenic airports. Paro International Airport is the kingdom's sole international gateway, and two trusted carriers—Drukair (the national airline) and Bhutan Airlines (a private airline)—operate scheduled flights with comfort, safety, and Bhutanese hospitality at heart.

For travelers seeking seamless exploration, Bhutan also offers three domestic airports in Bumthang (central), Yonphula (east), and Gelephu (south). These internal flights make avoiding backtracking, long drives, and open access to Bhutan's more remote corners easy.

It's important to note that flights into eastern Bhutan may occasionally be affected by weather due to the region's mountainous terrain. If you're planning to fly eastward, we recommend staying in close contact with your Raven journey designer—we'll monitor conditions and build flexibility into your itinerary to avoid disruptions.

Scenic aerial view of lush Bhutanese valleys and winding rivers from a plane window.

Understanding Drukair: Gateway to the Dragon Kingdom

Bhutan's national airline, Drukair, reflects the country's spirit—reliable, refined, and deeply rooted in pride. Flying with Drukair feels personal, especially in business class, where guests enjoy spacious seating, warm service, and a tranquil in-flight experience. Whether flying over the Indian plains or approaching Paro's dramatic valley, the sense of arrival begins well before landing.

Bhutan Airlines: Flying with the Nation's Warmth

Bhutan Airlines offers an equally welcoming experience with attentive service and modern aircraft. As a privately operated airline, it continues to earn praise for its smooth onboard experience and friendly cabin crew. From check-in to landing, the airline reflects Bhutan's signature hospitality—humble, thoughtful, and quietly elegant.

Travelers boarding a Drukair ATR aircraft under clear skies at a Bhutan domestic airport.

Departure Cities: Where You Can Fly From

You can reach Bhutan with ease from several cities across Asia. Direct flights to Paro are available from:

India: Delhi, Kolkata, Bagdogra, Guwahati, Gaya, and Mumbai
Nepal: Kathmandu
Thailand: Bangkok
Singapore: Changi Airport
Bangladesh: Dhaka
United Arab Emirates: Dubai (seasonal flights)
Vietnam: Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City

Depending on your broader itinerary, Raven Tours will help you choose the most efficient and scenic route into the kingdom.

Online Check-In: Simplifying Your Journey

Drukair and Bhutan Airlines offer online check-in from 72 to 4 hours before departure. While seats are not pre-assigned at booking, you can select your preferred seat during check-in. Based on our guests' experiences, we recommend using the desktop version of each airline's website for smoother access, as mobile apps may occasionally encounter glitches.

Choosing the Best Seats for Himalayan Views

For the best aerial views when flying into Bhutan, we suggest choosing a window seat on the left-hand side of the aircraft. Weather permitting, you may catch sight of sacred peaks and winding rivers—a preview of the beauty awaiting you on the ground.

Majestic Himalayan peaks piercing through a sea of clouds during a flight over Bhutan.

Baggage Policies: Travel Light, Travel Easy

Drukair and Bhutan Airlines offer generous luggage allowances. Economy class guests can check in up to 30 kilograms, while business class passengers enjoy up to 40 kilograms. You may bring two check-in bags if the combined weight remains within the limit.

Raven Tours will advise you on what to pack and ensure your luggage complies with airline regulations for a worry-free experience.

Check-In Time Recommendations

To keep your travels unhurried, plan to reach the airport roughly three hours before international takeoff and two hours before flying domestically in Bhutan. As always, your Raven Tours team will be one step ahead, reconfirming your flight schedule 72 hours before departure and keeping everything running smoothly behind the scenes.

Inflight Meals & Special Dietary Requests

If you have any dietary restrictions, our team will coordinate with the airline to accommodate your needs. Both Drukair and Bhutan Airlines offer vegetarian and special meal options upon request, ensuring you're well cared for even in the sky.

Booking Flights with Raven Tours

When you book your flights through Raven Tours, we take care of every detail—from securing scenic seats to monitoring weather conditions and arranging timely check-ins. We'll walk with you from takeoff to touchdown, ensuring your arrival in Bhutan is smooth, graceful, and deeply personal.