Drukair - Royal Bhutan Airlines has signed a Memorandum of
Understanding (MoU) with Airbus for three A320neo and two A321XLR
aircraft to expand its international network.
After delivery in 2030, the national flag carrier of the Kingdom of
Bhutan plans to fly these aircraft out of Paro International Airport and
the new airport at Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC), which is being
planned as Bhutan’s future economic hub.
Tandi Wangchuk, Drukair CEO, said, “This new chapter in Drukair’s
history dovetails perfectly with development of the Gelephu Mindfulness
City and work to expand the Gelephu airport.”
Drukair currently operates four Airbus A320 Family aircraft
consisting of three A319s and one A320, and will utilise the new
aircraft to expand its connectivity to Europe, South-east Asia and
Australia.
“Our investment in these state-of-the-art aircraft underscores our
dedication to supporting Bhutan’s vision of holistic and mindful
development,” Wangchuk added.
By incorporating new generation engines and Sharklets, the A321neo
brings a 50% noise reduction and more than 20% fuel savings and CO₂
reduction compared to previous generation single-aisle aircraft.
The A321XLR will deliver 15% more range than the A321LR and with 30%
lower fuel burn per seat compared with previous generation competitor
aircraft, as well as reduced NOx emissions and noise.