In a narrow Himalayan valley and flanked by peaks towering up to 18,000 feet, Bhutan’s Paro International Airport is considered one of the most difficult places in the world for a commercial aircraft to land. At 7,382 feet above sea level, the airport’s location poses multiple challenges.

Pilots must navigate a steep, winding descent before aligning with a runway that is just 7,431 feet long, and only becomes visible seconds before touchdown. Because of the terrain and lack of radar guidance, all landings must be performed manually, without the help of autopilot systems. Only 50 pilots worldwide are believed to be certified to land at Paro, following extensive training and testing. The airport is classified as Category C, requiring specialised skills and in-depth knowledge of the local geography.

Even the smallest deviation from the flight path can pose serious risks.

Weather adds to the difficulty. Most flights are scheduled to land before noon to avoid the strong winds that develop in the valley later in the day.

During monsoon season, which runs from June to August, conditions can deteriorate quickly, with hailstorms and heavy rain common.

Afternoon and nighttime operations are restricted due to limited visibility and the absence of radar infrastructure.

Despite the challenges, Paro has become a symbol of Bhutan’s unique approach to travel, remote, serene, and reserved for those willing to go the extra mile. The airport plays a critical role in connecting the Himalayan kingdom to cities like New Delhi, Bangkok, and Kathmandu.

However, change is on the horizon. Bhutan is developing a new international airport in the southern town of Gelephu, part of a larger initiative to build a “mindfulness city.” Unlike Paro, Gelephu’s flatter landscape can support longer runways and larger aircraft, opening the door to direct flights from Europe, the Middle East, and North America in the coming years.

Bhutan’s aviation industry remains relatively young. Druk Air, the national carrier, was founded in 1981 and currently operates a small fleet. The country is investing in training local pilots to meet growing demand, with a new generation of aviators being taught to handle both the country’s complex geography and shifting climate.

For now, landing at Paro remains a rare skill — and a white-knuckle experience that ends, more often than not, with a round of applause from the cabin.