Paro, Bhutan—Marking the 13th Royal Wedding Anniversary of Their Majesties, Drukair finalized a deal with Airbus to acquire five new aircraft, signaling a leap forward in its fleet capabilities.
The agreement, signed yesterday in Paro, includes three A320neo and two A321XLR models. This strategic purchase will replace Drukair’s aging A319s, which will reach 25 years of service by 2030.
Drukair CEO Tandi Wangchuk highlighted the importance of the deal, explaining that the initial Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in July secured early delivery slots. “Without this step, deliveries could have been delayed to 2032 or beyond,” he said.
The new fleet, set to arrive by 2030, will support expanded routes to Europe, Japan, and Australia, enhancing Bhutan’s global connectivity. It will also cater to the growing transportation needs linked to the Gelephu Mindfulness City project.
The two A321XLRs are designated for the upcoming Gelephu Airport. If the airport isn’t operational by the delivery date, Drukair may convert these orders into A320neo slots.
Both aircraft models are designed for sustainability, boasting reduced fuel consumption, lower CO2 emissions, and noise reduction. Airbus plans to make its fleet fully compatible with sustainable aviation fuel by 2030.
The A321XLR, with a range of up to 4,700 nautical miles, offers 30% lower fuel burn per seat compared to previous models, while the A320neo features significant fuel and noise reductions.
Drukair’s current fleet includes four Airbus A320 Family aircraft and two Eurocopter A-130 helicopters, with a third helicopter set to join soon.
The signing ceremony was attended by Yab Dasho Dhondup Gyaltshen, Dasho Penjore, and Dr Thierry Mathou, emphasizing the international collaboration behind this milestone.
With this deal, Drukair positions itself for a sustainable and ambitious future in global aviation.
