The Bhutanese Leading the way.
During the question-hour session, on 27th May Khamdang Ramjar Constituency’s MP Namgay Dorji highlighted that eastern Bhutan has enormous potential for the promotion of tourism due to its rich cultural heritage, diversity, unspoiled natural beauty and unique experiences. However, the lack of reliable airstrip and the region’s remote location discourages tourists.
He asked, what are the latest findings and the status of the ministry to establish a reliable air transport to promote tourism for balanced development.
In response, Minister of Infrastructure and Transport Lyonpo Chandra Bdr Gurung said that the initial feasibility study which focused on topography and meteorological condition, obstacle limitation assessment and operational requirements indicates a greater challenge to have an airport built for other potential sites including eastern dzongkhag.
Therefore, the ministry is working on enhancing operations at Yonphula domestic airport.
He said that in the 13th FYP, the ministry has proposed provision of a runway lighting system and Precision Approach Path Indicator (PAPI) to enhance visibility.
Additionally, he said that an aeronautical study is needed to support aircraft operations under reduced visibility conditions which will require a feasibility assessment to ensure alignment with the airport’s operational requirements and environmental conditions.
Regarding the Samrang and Yoeseltse airport sites, Nganglam MP Lamdra Wangdi questioned the ministry regarding the selection criteria for the proposed airstrips at Samrang (Samdrup Jongkhar) and Yoeseltse (Samtse).
He raised concerns about limited economic benefits due to the remoteness of the sites and sought clarity on local government involvement and plans for further site evaluations.
On 26th November 2024 the Cabinet Secretary instructed the ministry to conduct a final detailed assessment of the two sites (Samrang and Yoeseltse) out of 12 assessed sites. The detailed technical assessment for these two sites commenced from 17th to 31st March 2025.
Key selection criteria included favorable topography, suitable meteorological conditions, limited flight path obstructions, and adequate space for airstrip infrastructure.
Lyonpo said, “Yoeseltse and Samrang has a flat and gentle sloping terrain compared with other sites and hence would provide potential for reduced construction cost and thus simplifies operation. The runway would suitably align with the prevailing winds for safe take-off and landings. The assessment of the surrounding obstacles indicate there are limited natural and man-made obstacles like mountains, towers, etc. Sufficient runway length can be achieved at both sites and there is sufficient space for building terminals and other support facilities.”
However, he said that the entry to Indian airspace is unavoidable at both sites.
He said that the broader assessments like economic viability, traffic analysis and environmental impacts were beyond the initial scope.
Further, he said that both local governments were consulted during the process.
On 23rd May 2025, the Cabinet directed MoIT to conduct a comprehensive cost-benefit analysis, including the feasibility of operating 12-seater helicopters at the selected sites. The ministry is expected to submit its findings accordingly.
