The country is set to have its first private helicopter company called Heli Bhutan, with an Airbus H-125, a single-engine light utility helicopter expected to arrive in January next year. The company aims to boost connectivity and promote tourism across the country by offering a range of helicopter services.
Heli Bhutan is founded by a Bhutanese man along with three foreign individuals from the United States, Germany and Canada. The company is currently in the final phase of obtaining its Air Operator Certificate from the Bhutan Civil Aviation Authority, after nearly five years of effort to bring the project to fruition.
As a Foreign Direct Investment company, Heli Bhutan is funded with 70 per cent of the investment coming from foreign shareholders and the remaining 30 per cent from the Bhutanese partner.
The company will provide various services such as scenic tours, passenger transportation, and rescue operations among others.
The H-125 helicopter is a versatile high-altitude aircraft made in France that can accommodate up to six passengers.
The company said its presence will provide another option to people for helicopter services in the country. Moreover, apart from western regions, Heli Bhutan hopes that its services can enhance tourism in other parts of the country as well.
“We are committed to helping Bhutan in boosting the tourism sector and helping the aviation sector grow. There are a few ways we see this happening. Enhancing the connectivity of the country, developing Bhutanese human resources, and attracting young talent. And also, to support his majesty’s vision of the Gelephu Mindfulness City in providing connectivity and infrastructure development,” said Jennifer Lan, a shareholder at Heli Bhutan.
Heli Bhutan said that its safety measures will meet international standards. Currently, the company is hiring two European pilots to join their team.
“We see a lot of potential and growth in the helicopter industry in Bhutan. We hope to not only fill the void but grow the sector. We have plans to add to our fleet soon,” added Jennifer Lan.
The company launched its website today and will be accepting pre-bookings by October this year.
Kinzang Lhadon
Edited by Kipchu
