In a significant development for the Kingdom of Bhutan, Druk Air has announced the resumption of scheduled flights to Gelephu. This decision comes hot on the heels of the auspicious salang tendrel for the extension of Gelephu’s existing airport, a crucial component in the ambitious Mindfulness City project officially launched on National Day.
Druk Air, more than just a national flag carrier, has taken on the responsibility of connecting Bhutan to the world, becoming a lifeline for its citizens. With the renewed focus on connectivity, national pride, and identity, the airline is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the nation.
Reflecting on the concept of a national flag carrier, it is evident that airlines transcend their role as mere transportation entities. For Bhutanese, the introduction of air services marked a transformative era, with Druk Air emerging as a symbol of national pride. The significance of the national carrier extends beyond its operational functions to embody the essence of Bhutanese identity on the global stage.
Examining international experiences and academic studies, it becomes clear that state-owned airlines serve as crucial instruments for projecting a country’s image internationally. Notably, countries like Malaysia and Singapore have strategically utilized their flag carriers to promote nation-building and foster a sense of national identity.
In a global landscape where some state-owned airlines operate at a loss, Bhutan has a unique opportunity to harness the potential of Druk Air. The airline can act as a bridge, connecting the Bhutanese diaspora with their homeland through regular flights to destinations like Australia and the Middle East. This initiative, akin to circular migration in sociology, could strengthen ties with the diaspora and encourage investments.
As Bhutan embarks on the ambitious Mindfulness City project, Gelephu assumes a central role in providing the best and most convenient connectivity. Druk Air’s decision to resume scheduled flights to Gelephu, along with plans to explore international routes using the existing runway and ATR aircraft, is a commendable move. The inclusion of cities like Bagdogara, Kolkata, and Kathmandu in the airline’s network would undoubtedly act as a catalyst for the project.
The long-term benefits for Druk Air and the tourism industry are immense, with the potential to capitalize on Gelephu’s strategic location. As Bhutan Airlines, a resilient player in the industry, considers joining this initiative, the collaborative efforts of both national carriers could contribute significantly to the realization of the city of the future.