April 22, 2025
THIMPHU – Bhutan’s first private helicopter operator, Heli Bhutan Private Limited (Heli Bhutan), will begin its operations by the end of this month.
Headquartered in Ramtokto, Thimphu, Heli Bhutan will provide an alternative to the existing state-owned Royal Bhutan Helicopter Services Limited, which currently faces limitations in meeting the growing demand for various services. The entry of a private player is expected to bridge this gap.
Heli Bhutan will offer a diverse range of services, including scenic tours, convenient passenger transport, efficient aerial work, and crucial rescue operations, among others.
The company has already acquired a brand-new, high-altitude capable Airbus H-125 helicopter, which has arrived in Thimphu. This versatile French-made aircraft can accommodate up to six passengers and is renowned for its adaptability. Operations will be overseen by a pilot from the United Kingdom.
Heli Bhutan’s chief executive officer, Chencho Dorji, “Having received the Air Operator Certificate (AOC) from the Bhutan Civil Aviation Authority (BCAA), I am extremely happy and eager to start this new venture.”
A key objective for Heli Bhutan, according to Chencho Dorji, is to generate employment opportunities for Bhutanese citizens, particularly the youth, thereby helping to curb the issue of youth exodus.
He said that all 20 individuals currently employed by the company are Bhutanese nationals. These staff members have undergone essential training in France and Nepal to equip them with the necessary skills.
Chencho Dorji further said that Heli Bhutan is committed to supporting balanced tourism in the country and contributing to His Majesty the King’s noble initiative of the Gelephu Mindfulness City.
Chencho Dorji holds 30 percent stake in the company, with the remaining 70 percent shared among foreign investors.
The official launch of Heli Bhutan was initially planned for February 21, coinciding with His Majesty the King’s Birth Anniversary. However, the inauguration faced delays and is now formally scheduled for tomorrow.
As the first private helicopter company in Bhutan, Chencho Dorji said that safety has been the government’s primary concern, necessitating the fulfilment of numerous stringent safety procedures.
“The company had to fulfill many criteria set by the authority, on aircraft, hangar, helipad, post holders in the office, among others,” he added.
In addition, the company was required to obtain various clearances from relevant government agencies.
The BCAA recently conducted a comprehensive initial AOC audit for Heli Bhutan. This three-day assessment rigorously evaluated the company’s readiness across a wide spectrum of areas, including organisational structure and management systems, flight operations and crew training protocols, quality management systems, safety management systems, and ground operations.
The BCAA inspection team collaborated closely with Heli Bhutan’s management and operational personnel to verify compliance with regulations and thoroughly evaluate their operational preparedness for commencing commercial helicopter service.