Historic first direct charter between Bhutan and Sri Lanka takes flight

Monday, 8 September 2025 02:17 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

In a ground-breaking moment for regional aviation and tourism, the first-ever direct chartered flight between Bhutan and Sri Lanka has been officially launched.

Operated by Bhutan’s national carrier Royal Bhutan Airlines (Drukair) and chartered by Bhutan-based Routes and Journeys, this historic milestone promises to open new opportunities for cross-cultural travel and tourism development.

The inaugural flights are scheduled to operate from Paro to Colombo on 19 December 2025, followed by the historic maiden Colombo–Paro direct sector on 20 December 2025, establishing a new air bridge between the two nations.

The official launch ceremony took place at Ramada Hotel, Colombo, on 22 August 2025, graced by distinguished guests including the President of the Travel Agents Association of Sri Lanka (TAASL) and its members. The event saw overwhelming support from the Sri Lankan travel fraternity, underlining the excitement and potential of this new connectivity.

As part of the launch, representatives of Royal Bhutan Airlines will be present for an official MoU signing with Routes and Journeys, cementing the collaboration for the charter flights. Additionally, Bhutan Tourism Head will be delivering a comprehensive presentation on Bhutan as a destination, sharing insights into the country’s unique culture, spiritual heritage, and natural wonders with attending Sri Lankan travel agencies.

Speaking at the event, Routes and Journeys Head of the Colombo Sales Office Godfrey Leon, emphasised the significance of the launch and the company’s long-term commitment to the Sri Lankan market.

Routes and Journeys Bhutan General Manager Pema Tashi announced plans to bring the first-ever Bhutanese pilgrim group to Sri Lanka, strengthening two-way travel between the countries.

Adding a visionary outlook, Routes and Journeys Vice President Hilal A. Kolu said: “This historic charter is only the beginning. Beyond charters, we aspire to see a scheduled flight between Bhutan and Sri Lanka in the near future. Such a development would allow both countries to market twin-country tourism products, leveraging the large numbers of international tourists visiting each destination. With time, we hope to encourage Drukair to work closely with SriLankan Airlines towards a potential code-share partnership.”

This landmark initiative marks a new chapter of collaboration between Bhutan and Sri Lanka, with the promise of boosting cultural exchange, tourism flows, and bilateral ties.