Drukair (KB, Paro) has signed a Purchase Agreement with Airbus for five new aircraft - three A320-200Ns and two A321-200NY(XLR)s - aimed at replacing its aging fleet and expanding its international network. According to Bhutanese news agency Kuensel, the agreement was concluded on October 13, 2024, following a Letter of Intent (LOI) signed during the 2024 Farnborough Air Show.
The new aircraft will begin arriving in 2030, with the A320-200Ns complementing Drukair's only A320-200N, while the A321-200NY(XLR)s will mark the airline's first use of this type. Engine choice has not yet been disclosed. The earlier Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was key to ensure delivery slots were secured, preventing any delays beyond 2032.
According to Drukair's CEO, Tandi Wangchuk, the A320-200Ns will be stationed at the airline's hub in Paro, replacing two aging A319-100s that have been in service since 2004. The A321-200NY(XLR)s will be based at the future Gelephu airport, as they are unable to fly from Paro due to its operational constraints.
The introduction of the A321-200NY(XLR)s will allow Drukair to launch long-haul flights to destinations in Europe, Japan, and Australia, from Gelephu. “Should the airport not be ready by the scheduled delivery date, Drukair has the option to convert the A321XLR orders into A320neo slots” the CEO also mentioned. The Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC) project aims to establish Gelephu as a centre for wellness tourism and economic development, avoiding the notoriously difficult operating conditions of Paro.
According to the ch-aviation fleets module, Drukair's fleet currently comprises five aircraft, including three A319-100s, one CFM International LEAP-powered A320-200N, and one ATR42-600. Following last year's merger with Bhutan Helicopter Services Limited, the airline also operates two Airbus Helicopters H130s and anticipates the delivery of a third in a few weeks.
Recently, the airline announced the start of its Middle East operations, launching a new service to Dubai International, starting on October 28th, as per ch-aviation schedules.
