Saturday, August 31, 2024 Bhutan Airlines, the first private airline in Bhutan, will begin offering direct flights between Ho Chi Minh City and Paro Town starting in 2025. The airline plans to operate 10 round-trip flights each year, focusing on peak travel periods. During peak tourist seasons, including January, February, April, August, September, and December, Bhutan Airlines will introduce its new direct flight service between Ho Chi Minh City and Paro Town.
This route will significantly enhance travel options for those looking to explore Bhutan, a country celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage. The flight from Ho Chi Minh City to Paro Town is expected to take approximately four hours, while the return journey will be around five hours. Round-trip fares have been set at approximately VND26 million (US$1,045) for business class travelers, while economy class passengers can expect to pay about VND22 million (US$884).
This new service is part of Bhutan Airlines’ strategy to boost tourism and strengthen ties between Vietnam and Bhutan, capitalizing on the increasing interest in Bhutan’s unique attractions. Recent preliminary data from the Bhutan Department of Immigration highlights the growing importance of the Vietnamese market, with Vietnam now ranking among the top five countries contributing the most tourists to Bhutan. In 2024, it is estimated that around 5,000 Vietnamese visitors will travel to Bhutan, drawn by both tourism and investment opportunities.
To maintain its controlled approach to tourism, Bhutan requires travelers to book package tours, issuing visas only to those who have purchased these packages. Independent travel is currently not permitted. The cost of these tours ranges from VND53 million (US$2,130) to over VND60 million (US$2,412), reflecting Bhutan’s commitment to offering a high-value, low-impact tourism experience.
Ugyen Tenzin, the General Director of Bhutan Airlines, highlighted that the introduction of new scheduled flights is part of a strategic initiative aimed at providing Vietnamese tourists with more convenient access to Bhutan. By launching these direct flights, the airline seeks to simplify the travel experience, making Bhutan a more attractive destination for Vietnamese travelers. The availability of direct flights is expected to significantly reduce travel time between the two countries, making the journey not only faster but also more comfortable.
This convenience is likely to encourage more Vietnamese tourists to explore Bhutan, known for its serene landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and emphasis on Gross National Happiness. In the past, some tour operators organized charter flights to Bhutan, but consistently filling these flights proved to be a challenge. The introduction of scheduled flights addresses this issue by providing a more reliable and regular travel option, making it easier for tourists to plan their trips.
Le Truong Hien Hoa, Deputy Director of the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Tourism, noted that this new direct route would not only enhance convenience for travelers but also serve as a catalyst for tourism growth between Vietnam and Bhutan. He emphasized the potential for increased cultural exchange and economic benefits resulting from the closer connection. Bhutan Airlines, founded in 2011, holds the distinction of being the first and only private airline in Bhutan.
Headquartered in Paro Town, the airline has steadily built its reputation by focusing on delivering quality service and promoting Bhutan as a must-visit destination. The airline operates a modern fleet of Airbus A319 aircraft, well-suited for both short and medium-haul flights. These aircraft are equipped to offer both scheduled services and charter flights, catering to various travel needs and expanding Bhutan’s connectivity with international markets.
By offering scheduled direct flights between Ho Chi Minh City and Paro, Bhutan Airlines is not only facilitating travel but also positioning itself as a key player in the tourism industry. This move aligns with Bhutan’s broader goals of sustainable tourism development, ensuring that the influx of tourists is managed in a way that preserves the country’s natural beauty and cultural integrity..
