In 2025, Bhutan Airlines will inaugurate the first direct flight service between Bhutan and Vietnam, connecting Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) with Paro, one of the world’s most challenging airports due to its mountainous location and high-altitude setting. The airline plans to operate 10 round-trip flights annually using Airbus A319 aircraft, as announced at a recent event in HCMC.

Round-trip fares are expected to be approximately VND26 million (US$1,045) for business class and VND22 million ($885) for economy. Currently, travelers between Bhutan and Vietnam must transit through Thailand or India.

Paro Airport, located over 2,400 meters above sea level and surrounded by mountains as high as 5,500 meters, is known for its short runway and strong winds, making it one of the most difficult airports in the world for landing and takeoff.

In 2019, Bhutan welcomed 315,599 international visitors, with 73% of them coming from India. However, in 2023, the number of tourists visiting the Himalayan kingdom dropped to around 130,000. Bhutan, known for its unique approach to tourism, discourages backpackers by charging a daily tourist fee of $100. The country’s Gross National Happiness index, a measure of well-being, increased from 0.743 in 2010 to 0.781 in 2022.

Founded in 2011, Bhutan Airlines is the country’s only private carrier, operating a fleet of Airbus A319 aircraft and offering both scheduled and charter flights.