Bathpalathang Airport BUT

Bathpalathang Airport serves Jakar, in the Bumthang valley in central Bhutan. It is a domestic airport at about 2,700 m above sea level, with a 1,200 m runway. It opened in 2011, was suspended in 2012 because of runway damage, and today operates a limited service.

Terminals

There is a single small terminal, with arrivals and departures under one roof. There are no distances to cover and formalities are simple, but don’t expect the infrastructure of a big airport.

Airlines and destinations

The only airline operating is Drukair, with flights between Bumthang and Paro of about 35 minutes. Frequency varies by season and by source, with a few flights a week, so check the current timetable with Drukair or your agency. With small aircraft, operations depend heavily on the weather.

Services

Services are basic. There are no large shops, lounges or food options comparable to Paro, so bring what you need. The usual way to get to or from the airport is a taxi or a transfer arranged through your hotel or agency.

Tips

Fog, low cloud and wind can cause delays or cancellations, so don’t cut it close with same-day international connections: leave at least a day of margin. The road journey between Jakar and the rest of the country is long, so many travellers combine one leg by road with the return by air. Confirm your flight with your agency the day before.