Kenya Airways

KB Airlines (known as Drukair — Royal Bhutan Airlines) is not just a carrier, but the true wings of the "Kingdom of the Thunder Dragon." As the national flagship of Bhutan, the company fulfills one of the most impressive missions in civil aviation, connecting the high-altitude Himalayan state with the outside world through complex mountain routes. A flight on board this airline often becomes a traveler's first introduction to the unique hospitality and tranquility characteristic of this amazing region.

History and Mission
The company was founded in the early 1980s by royal decree to end Bhutan's isolation. Before the arrival of KB, the journey into the country took days of arduous travel by land. Today, the carrier's main mission is to provide a reliable and safe air bridge for tourists and locals while preserving national traditions. On board, passengers can often see the crew in national dress and taste local cuisine.

Flight Geography
The airline's route network focuses on connections with key transport hubs in South and Southeast Asia. According to the schedule, the most popular destinations are flights to Delhi and Kathmandu, which serve as major transit points for tourists. Regular flights are also operated to Kolkata, Bangkok, and Dhaka. For travelers from the Middle East, a vital route is the flight from the city of Dubai. Additionally, the company serves the Indian cities of Guwahati and Siliguri (Bagdogra).

Fleet and Safety
The KB fleet consists of modern Airbus family aircraft (A319 and A320neo), specially modified for high-altitude operations, as well as ATR turboprop liners for domestic and short regional flights. Safety is the company's absolute priority: the base airport in Paro is considered one of the most challenging in the world due to the surrounding mountain peaks, so KB pilots undergo special enhanced training and are considered the elite of the aviation world. Only certified pilots are permitted to perform take-offs and landings in this unique location.

Contacting KB Airlines (also known as Drukair) is quite simple, but it is worth noting that the headquarters is located in Bhutan, and the main support time zone is UTC+6. The company is actively developing digital communication channels, so using email or messaging apps is recommended for prompt issue resolution.

Official Website
All current information on flights and services can be found on the carrier's official portal: www.drukair.com.bt.

Contact Details

• Official Website: www.drukair.com.bt
• Reservation and Support Center (Bhutan): +975 8 271856 or +975 8 271857
• Hotline (inside Bhutan): 1300
• WhatsApp (International Support): +975 171 31300
• Email for Reservations: reservation@drukair.com.bt
• Email for General Inquiries: enquiry@drukair.com.bt
• Feedback Service: wearelistening@drukair.com.bt
• Mobile App: "Drukair" (available on App Store and Google Play)

Social Media

You can follow news and special offers on the carrier's official pages:

• Facebook
• Instagram
• Twitter (X)

Offices and Representatives

The airline's head office is located in the "Valley of the Winds," in the city of Paro (Nemeyzampa, Paro, Bhutan). Additionally, official representatives or check-in counters are available at airports of key route network destinations:

• India: Sales offices operate in the cities of Delhi (Terminal 3, Indira Gandhi Airport) and Kolkata, as well as in Guwahati and Siliguri (Bagdogra Airport).
• Thailand: Representative office in the city of Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi Airport).
• Nepal: Office in the city of Kathmandu (Mallaguri area/Tribhuvan Airport).
• Bangladesh: Office in the city of Dhaka.
• UAE: General Sales Agent is located in the city of Dubai.

Passenger Support

Please note that the main support line and WhatsApp request processing operate from 07:00 to 21:00 Bhutan local time (BST, GMT+6). During night hours, it is recommended to send requests via email — they will be processed at the beginning of the next business day.

Important: Contact details and office addresses may change. We strongly recommend checking the current information in the "Contact Us" section on the official website before your trip.

Preparing for a trip to the "Kingdom of the Thunder Dragon" begins with smart packing. Given that the base airport of KB (Drukair) is located at high altitude, special safety requirements apply to the weight and dimensions of baggage. We have gathered all the necessary information for you so that your check-in proceeds smoothly and without delays.

Hand Luggage: Essentials at Hand

Strict but fair rules apply to carry-on items on KB flights. This is due to the technical specifics of flying in mountainous conditions, where every kilogram matters.

• Economy Class: Passengers are usually allowed to carry one piece of hand luggage weighing up to 5 kg (in some cases up to 7 kg, depending on the aircraft type).
• Business Class: The allowance may be increased, but it is recommended to verify this on your ticket.
• Personal Items: In addition to the bag, you may take a small handbag, a laptop bag, or a camera.

Important: Hand luggage dimensions must not exceed standard sizes (sum of three dimensions approximately 100 cm) so that the bag fits easily into the overhead bin or under the seat. If you are flying on a smaller ATR turboprop aircraft (for example, from the cities of Guwahati or Kolkata), bin space may be more limited than on an Airbus.

Checked Baggage: Generous Limits

One of the pleasant advantages of KB Airlines is the fairly high free baggage allowance on international flights. This is particularly convenient for tourists planning long treks in the Himalayas.

• Economy Class: The standard allowance is 30 kg.
• Business Class: Passengers can expect 40 kg of baggage.
• Infants (children without a seat): An additional 10 kg of baggage is usually provided.

Please note that a single piece of baggage must not weigh more than 32 kg according to international labor safety rules for handlers.

Excess Baggage

If your suitcases exceed the established limits, you will have to pay for each extra kilogram. Rates depend on the route. For example, excess weight on a flight from the city of Bangkok will cost differently than on a short flight from the city of Kathmandu.

We recommend weighing your baggage in advance. Payment for excess baggage at the airport is accepted in local currency or US dollars, as well as by credit card, though cash is always more reliable in remote regions.

Sports Equipment and Musical Instruments

Bhutan attracts lovers of golf, cycling, and active tourism. KB Airlines has clear rules for such cargo:

Sports Equipment: Golf sets, bicycles, and fishing gear can be included in your free baggage allowance. If the weight exceeds the allowance (e.g., 30 kg combined with your suitcase), the standard excess fee applies. Bicycles must be packed in special protective cases or boxes, with handlebars turned and pedals removed.

Musical Instruments: Small instruments can be taken into the cabin as hand luggage. Large and fragile items (cellos, guitars) require either checking in as baggage in a Hard Case or purchasing a separate seat in the cabin (CBBG service).

Prohibited and Restricted Items

Flight safety over the Himalayas is an absolute priority. It is strictly forbidden to carry explosives, compressed gases, or flammable liquids in checked or hand luggage.

Pay special attention to:

• Batteries and Power Banks: Transported ONLY in hand luggage. Checking them in baggage is categorically prohibited and may lead to the suitcase being removed from the flight.
• Tobacco Products: Bhutan has very strict laws. Importing cigarettes is permitted in limited quantities (usually 200 pieces) only upon declaration and payment of duty at Paro airport. Be sure to keep the duty payment receipt until the end of your trip.
• Drones: Importing drones into Bhutan requires prior permission from the authorities. Without documents, equipment may be confiscated at customs.

Efficient Packing Tips

To ensure your journey, whether departing from the metropolis of Delhi or transiting through Dubai, goes comfortably, use our tips:

1. Wear the heavy items: It is better to wear trekking boots and warm jackets on the flight. This will save 2-3 kg of weight in your suitcase and keep you warm, as it can be cool in Paro.
2. Baggage labeling: Be sure to attach a tag with your name and phone number. Many trekking backpacks look similar from the outside.
3. Fragile souvenirs: If you are carrying souvenirs from the city of Dhaka or fragile purchases, wrap them in soft clothing and place them in the center of the suitcase.
4. Medicines and documents: Always keep them with you in your hand luggage; baggage can be delayed, and prescription drugs are difficult to find in the mountains.

Traveling with a pet to the "Kingdom of the Thunder Dragon" is a challenging task. Due to the complex high-altitude location of airports and Bhutan's strict biodiversity protection laws, KB (Drukair) approaches animal transport with maximum strictness. Unlike many other airlines, restrictions dictate safety here due to mountain flying conditions.

Transport Options

In the Cabin (PETC) — Strictly Restricted

It is important to know that KB Airlines generally does not allow the transport of pets in the passenger cabin. This is due to the comfort of other passengers and safety requirements on board narrow-body aircraft.

• Exceptions: Permission may be granted only in special cases or for service dogs (guide dogs) accompanying passengers with disabilities.
• Approval Requirement: Any attempt to take an animal into the cabin requires prior written approval from the airline when booking the ticket. Without this, you may be denied boarding.
• Placement: If permission is granted, the animal must remain in a carrier under the seat in front of you for the entire flight.

In the Hold (AVIH) — Primary Method

The most common way for pets to travel on KB flights is as checked baggage in the heated hold of the aircraft.

• Cage Requirements: Only rigid containers complying with IATA (International Air Transport Association) standards are accepted. The cage must be spacious enough for the animal to stand, turn around, and lie down.
• Safety: The container must have a secure lock (preferably metal), a waterproof bottom with absorbent covering, and ventilation openings on three sides.
• Processing: The animal is processed at the check-in counter as excess baggage.

Cargo

If you are sending an animal unaccompanied or if its weight including the cage is very high, processing through the cargo terminal is used.

• When to choose: Mandatory for very large dog breeds or when transporting multiple animals simultaneously.
• Timeline: Booking through the Cargo department must be done at least 1–2 weeks before departure, as confirmation of space in the cargo hold is required.

Documents and Veterinary Control

Bhutan protects its ecosystem very seriously. Upon arrival in Paro, you will face a thorough document check.

• Import Permit: This is the most important document. It must be obtained in advance from the Bhutan Agriculture and Food Regulatory Authority (BAFRA). Without it, the animal will not be allowed out of the airport.
• Veterinary Passport: International standard with vaccination records.
• Vaccination: Valid rabies vaccination (administered not less than 30 days and not more than 12 months before arrival).
• Health Certificate: A certificate from a veterinarian ("Fit to Fly") confirming that the animal is healthy and can withstand the flight, issued a few days before the flight.

Transport Costs

Animal transport on KB flights is never included in the free baggage allowance. Payment is made additionally.

• Price Calculation: The cost is usually calculated based on Excess Baggage Rates based on the total weight of the animal together with the container.
• Route Dependency: The rate per kilogram will differ depending on whether you are flying from the city of Delhi, making a trip from the city of Bangkok, or a short flight from the city of Kathmandu. We recommend clarifying current rates per kg with the call center before departure.

Restrictions and Recommendations

• High Altitude: Remember that Paro Airport is located at an altitude of over 2,200 meters. Animals with respiratory or heart problems may tolerate thin air poorly. Be sure to consult a veterinarian.
• Breed Ban: The airline may refuse to transport brachycephalic breeds (dogs and cats with flat faces, such as Pugs, Bulldogs, Persian cats) in the cargo hold due to the high risk of asphyxia.
• Sedatives: Do not give your pet strong sedatives before the flight without a direct recommendation from a doctor, as this can cause a drop in blood pressure at altitude.

Important: Rules may change depending on the type of aircraft (Airbus or ATR). We strongly recommend contacting a KB Airlines representative before purchasing tickets to confirm the possibility of transporting your pet on a specific flight.

KB Airlines values its loyal passengers and offers them participation in its signature loyalty program called "My Happiness Reward". This program, named to resonate with the national philosophy of Gross National Happiness, allows travelers to turn miles into new experiences, discovering Bhutan and neighboring countries with greater comfort and benefit.

Membership Tiers and Privileges

Status in the program depends on the frequency of your flights and accumulated points. The higher the tier, the more exclusive services are available to the passenger during travel through the home airport of Paro and other network hubs.

• Blue (Base): Assigned immediately after registration, gives the right to accumulate miles for every flight.
• Silver: Includes priority on the waiting list when booking and an increased free baggage allowance.
• Gold: Provides access to business lounges, priority check-in and boarding, as well as maximum baggage allowances.

How to Earn Miles

The main currency of the program is miles, which are awarded for completed flights. The number of points depends on the flight distance and booking class.

• Flights on scheduled routes: You receive miles for each flight segment, for example, for a flight to Delhi or Bangkok.
• Class of Service: Travel in business class yields significantly more bonus miles compared to economy.
• Special Promotions: The airline periodically offers bonus miles for flights to new destinations or during the low season.
• Retroactive Credit: If you forgot to provide your card number, miles can be claimed within a certain period after the flight.

How to Spend Miles

Accumulated "My Happiness Reward" points open access to a range of pleasant opportunities, making the trip to the Himalayas even more memorable.

• Award Tickets: Full payment of the flight with miles (only taxes and fees are paid).
• Class Upgrade: Opportunity to upgrade from economy to business class subject to seat availability.
• Excess Baggage: Paying for extra kilograms with miles, which is relevant for climbers and tourists.
• Tickets for Loved Ones: You can issue an award ticket for family members or friends using your account.

Alliance Participation

At the moment, KB Airlines is an independent carrier and is not part of global aviation alliances (such as Star Alliance, SkyTeam, or oneworld). This means that:

• "My Happiness Reward" miles can be earned and spent only on flights of KB Airlines (Drukair) itself.
• Status cards of other alliances do not give automatic privileges on this carrier's flights.
• Interline agreements with partners may exist, but they mainly concern through-baggage check-in, not loyalty.

How to Join the Program

Becoming a member of the privilege club is very simple, and it is absolutely free.

• Fill out the online registration form on the airline's official website in the "My Happiness Reward" section.
• Ask flight attendants during the flight to receive a paper application.
• Visit sales offices in route network cities, for example, in the city of Kathmandu or Kolkata.

Flying with KB Airlines (Drukair) is not just moving from point A to point B, but the beginning of an immersion in Bhutanese culture while still in the air. Given the specifics of high-altitude flights and a limited fleet, the carrier focuses on exclusive experiences, safety, and traditional Bhutanese hospitality, which is felt in every detail — from the smiles of the crew to the cabin design.

Classes of Service

On board Airbus aircraft (A319 and A320neo), which form the backbone of the airline's international fleet, passengers are offered two classes of service. First class is not currently provided by the aircraft configuration.

Business Class
This is the choice for those who value maximum comfort and privacy. The business class cabin is usually located in the nose of the liner and separated from economy by a curtain.
Features:

• Wide leather seats with increased recline angle and ample legroom.
• 2-2 seat configuration, guaranteeing no "middle" seat.
• Priority boarding and disembarkation, as well as personalized service throughout the flight.

Economy Class
Economy class offers a decent level of comfort for medium-duration trips. Seats are arranged in a 3-3 layout (on Airbus) or 2-2 (on ATR turboprops flying short distances, for example, to Kolkata or Guwahati). The cabins are kept impeccably clean, and the ergonomics of the seats allow you to relax even during the flight from the city of Dubai, which is one of the longest in the route network.

Food and Beverages

The gastronomic experience on board KB deserves special attention. The airline strives to introduce guests to the tastes of the Himalayas.

• Menu: Passengers are offered hot meals combining elements of international, Indian, and traditional Bhutanese cuisine. On morning flights, for example, from the city of Delhi, a hearty breakfast is served.
• Beverages: The assortment always includes juices, soft drinks, tea, and coffee. Business class passengers have access to a selection of premium beverages.
• Special Meals: If you have dietary preferences (vegetarian, diabetic, gluten-free menu), you must order it no later than 72 hours before departure through the reservation center.

Entertainment and Atmosphere

On board KB aircraft, you rarely find individual multimedia screens in seat backs characteristic of transatlantic liners (except for the newest A320neo, where streaming entertainment systems may be available). However, the airline offers alternatives:

The main entertainment is the view from the window. Flights to Paro are considered some of the most scenic in the world. When flying from the city of Kathmandu, passengers can often see Everest, Kanchenjunga, and other eight-thousanders. Pilots often announce which side of the aircraft offers the best view.

For reading, the inflight magazine "Tashi Delek" is offered, containing fascinating articles about the culture, nature, and festivals of Bhutan, helping to plan leisure time upon arrival.

Services for Special Categories of Passengers

The airline pays close attention to caring for passengers requiring additional assistance.

• Passengers with Reduced Mobility: Wheelchairs are provided upon request. It is important to notify the airline in advance, as boarding in mountain airports is often done via stairs rather than a jet bridge, and staff assistance (ambulift) may be required.
• Unaccompanied Minors: The company accepts children from 5 to 12 years old traveling without parents, ensuring flight attendant supervision from check-in to meeting relatives at the destination airport, whether it be Dhaka or Bangkok.
• Expectant Mothers: Air travel is permitted up to the 36th week of pregnancy (with a doctor's certificate after the 28th week), however, given pressure changes in the mountains, consultation with a specialist is recommended before purchasing a ticket.

Choosing a flight, for example, from the city of Siliguri, you can be sure that despite the short travel time, KB staff will do everything possible for your convenience and safety.

The route network of KB Airlines (Drukair) is built around its strategic hub — Paro Airport, which is the only international air gateway to Bhutan. The carrier ensures a vital link for the kingdom with major metropolises in South Asia and the Middle East, offering convenient connections for tourists and business travelers.

Traveling with KB Airlines (Drukair) requires more careful planning than a regular flight, as flights operate in unique high-altitude conditions, and demand for tickets often exceeds supply due to the limited number of flights. We have prepared practical recommendations for you to make preparing for your flight to the "Kingdom of the Thunder Dragon" as smooth and beneficial as possible.

Best Time to Book

Bhutan is a destination with distinct seasonality. Since KB Airlines is one of the few carriers flying to Paro airport, tickets for peak dates sell out very quickly.

• High Season: If you plan to travel in spring (March-May) or autumn (September-November), when colorful Tshechu festivals take place in Bhutan, it is recommended to book flights at least 3–6 months in advance. This applies especially to popular routes from the cities of Delhi and Bangkok.
• Low Fares: The best prices can be found for flights in the winter period (December-February) and during the monsoon season (June-August). At this time, tourist flow decreases, and the likelihood of finding tickets at the minimum fare increases.

Discounts and Special Offers

KB Airlines rarely holds mass sales characteristic of low-cost carriers, but ways to save exist:

• Student Fares: The company often provides discounts to students (up to 30% off the base fare) upon presentation of a valid international student ID. Quota availability needs to be checked at sales offices or through support.
• SAARC Citizens: Special, significantly reduced fares apply for citizens of South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation countries.
• Newsletter Subscription: Current promotions are sometimes published on the airline's official social media.

Online Check-in and Documents

The flight check-in procedure has its own specifics due to Bhutan's visa policy.

• Web Check-in: Online check-in usually opens 24 hours before departure on the website or mobile app. This allows you to choose a seat and save time at the airport.
• Visa Control: Even if you have completed online check-in, you will likely need to go to the Drop-off or check-in counter. Airline staff are required to verify your visa clearance (e-Visa clearance) before boarding, whether departing from the city of Kathmandu or transiting through Dubai. Without a printed or electronic copy of the visa, boarding will be denied.

Seat Selection Secrets: Where is the Best View?

Flying over the Himalayas is an excursion in itself. To see the famous eight-thousanders, including Everest, it is important to choose the correct side of the aircraft.

KB Passenger Golden Rule:

• Flying TO Bhutan (into Paro): Book window seats on the left side (Row A). On a flight from Kathmandu, this guarantees a panoramic view of Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu.
• Flying FROM Bhutan: Choose seats on the right side (Row F) to enjoy the mountain range again.

Tip: On flights from the city of Dhaka or Kolkata, mountains are less visible, but the left side during landing in Paro still ensures the most scenic turn over the valley.

Travel Insurance

Given the region's specifics, standard insurance may not be enough. When buying tickets and a policy, pay attention to the following points:

• Flight Delays: The airport in Paro operates under "Visual Flight Rules" (VFR). This means that in cloudy or windy weather, flights may be delayed or rescheduled to the next day. Choose insurance that covers accommodation and meal expenses in case of flight delay.
• Connections: If you are flying with a transfer (e.g., KB to Delhi, and then another airline home), allow for a connection time of at least 4–6 hours or an overnight stay to protect yourself from missing a flight due to the whims of Himalayan weather.

Mobile App

For passenger convenience, the "Drukair" app has been developed (available for iOS and Android). With it, you can:

• Book and pay for tickets.
• Check flight status in real-time (critical during the rainy season).
• Have quick access to your itinerary receipt.
• Manage participation in the "My Happiness Reward" loyalty program.

The history of KB Airlines (Drukair) is a fascinating chronicle of how a small Himalayan kingdom overcame geographical isolation and opened its doors to the world. From humble beginnings with small propeller aircraft to operating modern liners in one of the world's most challenging airports, the path of the national carrier is inextricably linked to the history of Bhutan's modernization itself.

Foundation and Royal Vision (1981–1983)

Until the early 1980s, reaching the "Kingdom of the Thunder Dragon" was possible only via difficult mountain roads. Understanding the need for air connectivity, His Majesty King Jigme Singye Wangchuck issued a decree in 1981 to create a national airline. This marked the beginning of a new era for the country.

The first years were dedicated to preparing infrastructure. On February 11, 1983, the historic first commercial flight took place: an 18-seat Dornier 228-200 turboprop flew from Paro airport and set course for the Indian city of Kolkata. This very route became the first thread connecting Bhutan to the external transport network.

The Jet Age and Network Expansion (1988–2000)

The growth of tourist interest required larger and longer-range aircraft. An important milestone was the acquisition of the first BAe 146-100 jet liner in 1988. This British aircraft was chosen for its unique maneuverability, necessary for safe take-off and landing in the narrow Paro valley.

The advent of jet technology allowed the airline to significantly expand its flight geography. Regular flights were launched to the capital of India, Delhi, ensuring convenient connections with international lines. Soon, the route map was supplemented by flights to Bangkok and Kathmandu, turning KB into an important player in regional aviation.

Fleet Modernization: The Airbus Era (2004–Present)

In the early 2000s, the company's management made a strategic decision to switch to Airbus technology. In 2004, the fleet was replenished with Airbus A319 liners. This event was perhaps the most significant leap in the carrier's service development and reliability. The new aircraft allowed for increased passenger capacity and flight range.

Today, the fleet is based on modern Airbus A319 and A320neo aircraft, equipped with high-power engines for high-altitude operations. For regional routes, for example, to the city of Dhaka or Indian Guwahati, as well as for domestic flights, reliable ATR 42-600 turboprops are used.

New Horizons and Innovations

Despite its status as a state-owned company and the absence of high-profile mergers or acquisitions, KB demonstrates confident organic growth. The airline remains a symbol of Bhutan's sovereignty, maintaining independence.

In recent years, the carrier has been actively implementing advanced navigation technologies (RNP AR), allowing flights to be performed in difficult weather conditions. The route network also continues to develop: one significant achievement was the launch of flights to Dubai, opening a convenient corridor for travelers from the Middle East and Europe.

Furthermore, the company strengthens ties with neighboring regions by operating flights to Bagdogra Airport in the city of Siliguri, which is a key hub for tourists traveling through Eastern India.