The Bhutanese Leading the way.
The National Assembly on 2nd June 2026 unanimously adopted the Convention on International Civil Aviation (Amendment) 2016, endorsing changes that expand representation in two of the International Civil Aviation Organization’s (ICAO) key governing bodies, strengthening Bhutan’s prospects for greater participation in global aviation decision-making.
All 42 members present and voting supported the adoption of the Convention following its third reading in the House earlier the same day.
The Convention will now be transmitted to the National Council as per the Rules of Procedure.
The Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, Lyonpo Chandra Bdr Gurung moved the motion for the adoption.
During the third reading, the Chairperson of the Human Rights and Foreign Relations Committee Phuntsho Dendup, Member of Parliament from Nubi-Tangsibji Constituency presented the committee’s review report on the proposed ratification.
The House deliberated on amendments to Articles 50(a) and 56 of the Chicago Convention, which was adopted by the 39th ICAO Assembly in 2016.
The amendments increase the membership of the ICAO Council from 36 to 40 contracting states elected by the House, and expand the Air Navigation Commission from 19 to 21 members appointed by the Council from among nominees of contracting states.
Members endorsed all recommendations submitted by the committee without any changes.
The amendments are intended to improve representation within ICAO in response to the growth in the organization’s membership and the increasing importance of international air transport.
A larger Council and Air Navigation Commission would provide a better balance in the representation of contracting states and allow broader technical expertise to be reflected in international aviation policymaking.
The government’s National Interest Analysis states that ratification would enhance Bhutan’s prospects of securing membership in the ICAO Council and Air Navigation Commission, giving the country greater opportunities to participate directly in discussions and decision-making processes related to international civil aviation.
The analysis further notes that increased representation would allow Bhutan to better advocate for its national interests and unique aviation operating environment while contributing to the development of international aviation standards, regulations, and policies.
Bhutan became a contracting state to ICAO after ratifying the Chicago Convention on 17th May 1989.
The Convention serves as the foundational treaty governing international civil aviation and establishes standards relating to air navigation, safety, security, environmental protection, and technical operations.
As of January 2026, 120 contracting states had ratified the 2016 protocols, short of the 128 ratifications required for the amendments to enter into force internationally.
Bhutan’s ratification is expected to contribute to the ongoing efforts to bring the amendments into force.
Lyonpo Chandra Bdr Gurung stated that the amendments are institutional in nature and will not require any changes to Bhutan’s existing aviation laws, regulations, or administrative procedures.
Further, no additional financial costs are anticipated from the ratification.
The proposal had earlier received approval from the Lhengye Zhungtshog during its earlier session in November 2025 and directed the ministry to submit it for ratification to the Parliament.
