Drukair, Royal Bhutan Airlines has joined the International Air Transport Association (IATA), the carrier announced on October 14 from Paro.
Membership sits alongside the airline’s plans for wider Global Distribution System (GDS) access, adoption of New Distribution Capability (NDC), more interline and codeshare partnerships and route network development. For a carrier serving 10 international destinations from a single hub, IATA membership gives access to the industry initiatives and standards that shape distribution and partnerships.
Drukair’s admission followed its registration under the IATA Operational Safety Audit (IOSA), which assesses an airline’s operational management and control systems. IOSA registration is a requirement for IATA membership and must be maintained by every member airline.
Chief Executive Officer Tandi Wangchuk called the membership an important milestone for Bhutan’s national airline. He said that, together with IOSA registration, it shows the carrier’s commitment to internationally recognised operational and safety standards, and that Drukair plans to use IATA’s global platform to deepen industry collaboration and improve connectivity.
Drukair Corporation Limited, the national flag carrier of the Kingdom of Bhutan, was established in 1981 and began commercial operations in 1983. It is based at Paro International Airport and flies to 10 international destinations across South Asia, Southeast Asia and the Middle East, including India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Thailand, Singapore and the United Arab Emirates. It also serves three domestic destinations and offers helicopter services.
Emerging Travel has also reported on airline safety oversight, including British Airways’ cancellation of Grenada flights over an airport safety gap.