✔ The inaugural Gelephu–Kolkata international flight
✔ The start of scheduled operations (timings included)
✔ The architectural award and vision for Gelephu Mindfulness City
Gelephu International Airport Welcomes Its First International Flight as Bhutan’s New Gateway Takes Shape
Bhutan entered a historic new aviation era on 8 December 2025, when Gelephu International Airport welcomed its first-ever international flight on the Gelephu–Kolkata–Gelephu route. Operated by Drukair, the inaugural service marks Gelephu’s transformation into Bhutan’s newest international aviation hub—strengthening connectivity, expanding access to southern Bhutan, and supporting the nation’s long-term vision for the emerging Gelephu Mindfulness City.
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The ceremonial launch included a traditional water cannon salute upon arrival in Kolkata, with officials from both sides commemorating the beginning of a new regional corridor linking Bhutan and eastern India.
A Significant Boost for Regional Connectivity
With international operations now launched, Gelephu is expected to become a strategic gateway for:
- Tourism
- Trade and logistics
- Health and education travel
- Investment and business mobility
The move aligns closely with the broader Mindfulness City development, which focuses on sustainable growth across sectors including aviation, wellness, technology, agri-innovation, and green energy.
Gelephu Airport received its Aerodrome Certificate from the Bhutan Civil Aviation Authority in September 2023, confirming its readiness to handle international commercial operations according to global safety standards.
Commercial Flights Begin 12 December 2025
Drukair will operate two scheduled weekly flights between Gelephu and Kolkata on Mondays and Fridays.
Flight Schedule
| Flight No. | Route | Departure | Arrival |
|---|---|---|---|
| KB210 | Gelephu (GLU) → Kolkata (CCU) | 12:10 PM | 1:10 PM |
| KB211 | Kolkata (CCU) → Gelephu (GLU) | 1:50 PM | 3:20 PM |
Duration: Approx. 1 hour
Frequency: Every Monday and Friday
Approx. Fare: ₹5,500 – ₹35,000 (one-way, depending on season and inventory)
These flights provide travellers from eastern India a much smoother and faster entry route into Bhutan’s southern districts—removing the need to fly via Paro or travel long distances by road.
The Historic First Flight
Speaking at the inauguration, GMC Governor highlighted Gelephu’s role in Bhutan’s future:
“With the launch of international flights, Gelephu will connect Bhutan more seamlessly with our neighbours and partners. This is a symbol of our readiness to engage the region through mindful, sustainable, and future-focused development.”
Drukair CEO Tandi Wangchuk added:
“The launch of international flights from Gelephu is more than route expansion—it is the opening of Bhutan’s future gateway. This connection will accelerate Gelephu’s transformation into a global destination for mindful living, innovation, and sustainable growth.”
Gelephu Mindfulness City: The Vision Behind the Airport
The airport is an anchor component of the Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC), an ambitious project that integrates:
- Spirituality
- Wellness & healthcare
- Education & knowledge
- Agri-tech & forestry
- Green energy & technologies
- Finance & digital assets
- Aviation & logistics
- Tourism
GMC aims to redefine Bhutan’s development model by creating a low-impact, future-ready ecosystem that attracts global collaboration while preserving cultural and environmental values.
Global Recognition: Future Project of the Year 2025
Adding to the momentum, Gelephu International Airport recently won the Future Project of the Year award at the World Architecture Festival 2025. Designed by BIG – Bjarke Ingels Group, the airport is celebrated for its:
- Sustainable timber-based diagrid structure
- Roofscape resembling mountain ranges
- Use of traditional Bhutanese motifs
- Passive climate-responsive design
- Integration of yoga, meditation, and nature-inspired spaces
The airport is scheduled for full expansion and architectural completion by 2029, and is envisioned to handle:
- 123 daily flights initially
- Up to 5.5 million passengers annually by 2065
This recognition reinforces the airport’s role not only as an infrastructure asset but also as a global example of architecture aligned with Bhutan’s mindful development philosophy.
A New Chapter for Travel in the Eastern Himalayas
With the first international flight successfully completed and scheduled services beginning, Gelephu is poised to become a major access point for travellers seeking alternative Bhutan routes.
The dual milestone—operational launch in 2025 and global architectural acclaim for its 2029 vision—positions Gelephu as one of South Asia’s most exciting emerging aviation and urban development hubs.
