Paro International Airport: One of the Most Challenging Airports to Land in the World

Located in the heart of Bhutan, Paro International Airport is surrounded by towering mountains, making it a daunting task for pilots to take off and land. Due to the unique climate, flights can only operate during the day, and pilots must rely on manual navigation without radar assistance.

Bhutan’s geography plays a significant role in the airport’s complexity. With 97% of the land being mountainous, the capital city of Thimbu sits at an altitude of 2,350 meters above sea level. Paro, being slightly lower at 2,250 meters, presents a unique challenge for pilots. The airport’s runway, stretching only 2,265 meters, is nestled between mountains that soar to 5,486 meters above sea level.

As a Category C airport, pilots must undergo specialized training to navigate the treacherous terrain. They must possess exceptional skills and a deep understanding of the surrounding landscape to avoid potential hazards. Even a slight miscalculation could result in a catastrophic outcome.

Climate change adds another layer of complexity, requiring pilots to be prepared for unexpected weather conditions at any moment. However, Captain Chimi Dorji of Druk Air, Bhutan’s national airline, emphasizes that while landing at Paro International Airport is challenging, it is not inherently dangerous. “If it were dangerous, we wouldn’t fly here,” he assures.

As the primary airline responsible for pilot training, Royal Bhutan Airlines takes pride in its rigorous training programs. With approximately 50 licensed pilots currently serving, the government has announced plans to recruit and train more local pilots, aiming to double the number of licensed pilots in the near future.