The Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport (MoIT) has affirmed that the development of domestic airports at Yoeseltse in Samtse and Samrang in Samdrup Jonkhar is feasible. Conversely, the proposed airport site at Pongchula in Mongar has been deemed unsuitable due to technical limitations. During a press session on March 6, MoIT Secretary Karma Wangchuk highlighted that domestic airport initiatives are integral to enhancing regional connectivity, fostering economic growth, and promoting balanced national development in Bhutan.
Wangchuk emphasized the necessity of comprehensive technical, environmental, and financial diligence for infrastructure projects of this significance, noting that all current projects are progressing as planned. Technical assessments for the Yoeseltse and Samrang airports have been conducted successfully, supported by geotechnical studies completed in September 2025 in cooperation with the Bhutan Standards Bureau (BSB). These studies evaluated crucial factors including soil composition and ground stability to ensure safe airport construction.
Moreover, detailed topographical surveys, finalized in August 2025 with the National Land Commission’s assistance, provided essential data related to terrain elevation, slopes, and natural obstacles, vital for runway design and airport layout planning. The Department of Air Transport is preparing draft detailed designs and cost estimates, which will be presented to the government for review and will influence decisions regarding project approval, funding, and implementation.
The MoIT confirmed the feasibility of the Yoeseltse and Samrang sites following detailed technical and topographical evaluations, marking a pivotal advancement in Bhutan’s domestic aviation strategy that aligns with operational and safety standards. In contrast, the reassessment of the Pongchula site indicated that its irregular ridge formation restricts the runway length to approximately 1,000 meters, which is insufficient for safely accommodating aircraft such as the ATR 42-600 and PC-24 that require runways between 1,200 and 1,700 meters. Although manageable meteorological conditions exist, the site was ruled out for further development.
The Ministry is looking alternative sites that can meet national aviation needs without compromising safety or limiting future aircraft capabilities due to inadequate runway size. Domestic airports are viewed as critical to Bhutan’s national infrastructure strategy, anticipated to enhance regional connectivity, stimulate trade, promote tourism, and provide better access for remote communities to essential goods and services.
In conclusion, Secretary Wangchuk affirmed that all domestic airport projects adhere to national technical standards and international aviation safety requirements, ensuring a meticulous review process from site selection through runway design and operational assessment. The submission of detailed designs and cost estimates for Yoeseltse and Samrang marks a significant milestone, while the conclusion regarding Pongchula underscores MoIT’s commitment to operational feasibility and safety excellence in airport development, remaining a priority within the government’s infrastructure strategy.
