Four months after ground was first broken, construction of the Gelephu International Airport is progressing steadily, marking a significant step in Bhutan’s plan to expand its global connectivity. Project officials report that close to 15 percent of the required earthworks have already been completed, with operations running smoothly through close coordination between local contractors and international specialists.
The construction site has become a hive of activity, as hundreds of workers operate across the vast terrain, transforming it into what will become Bhutan’s newest international aviation hub. The Rigsar–Vajra Joint Venture, responsible for the groundwork, has successfully cleared vegetation and debris, while topsoil stripping is nearing its final stage.
To ensure the runway can withstand the weight of aircraft, weak soil is being excavated and replaced with reinforced material. This process is closely monitored at an on-site laboratory where technicians regularly test soil density to confirm compliance with international aviation standards. Supporting this effort are crusher plants that supply aggregates for embankments and backfilling, along with heavy rollers weighing up to 22 tonnes — equipment being used in Bhutan for the first time.
Governor Dasho Dr Lotay Tshering expressed satisfaction with the pace of development, highlighting the involvement of Bhutanese companies in the project. He noted that the undertaking is not only advancing infrastructure but also building valuable expertise within the local construction industry.
Work continues well into the night under powerful floodlights, with approximately 150 workers and 60 pieces of machinery operating during evening shifts. These include excavators, dump trucks, bulldozers and compactors. As construction intensifies, these figures are expected to rise.
However, maintaining safety remains a central concern. Tashi Penjor, Managing Director of the City Development, GMCA, acknowledged challenges in monitoring the site’s extensive night operations, citing limited manpower for supervision. Strict measures are in place, including limiting each operator’s shift to eight hours and deploying separate teams for successive shifts to ensure continuous oversight.
In the months ahead, the focus will shift to major cut-and-fill work, reshaping the landscape by reducing elevated sections and filling lower areas to create a level foundation. Earthworks are expected to continue into next year, with full-scale construction scheduled to commence in June 2026.
The airport is projected to be completed by the end of 2029. Upon opening, it will have the capacity to handle 1.3 million passengers annually, with infrastructure designed to expand and accommodate more than 5.5 million in the future.
From dawn until long after dusk, the steady hum of machinery in Gelephu reflects Bhutan’s determination to realise a modern transport gateway. The project stands as a testament to collaboration, innovation and relentless effort, bringing the nation ever closer to establishing a direct link with the wider world.
