𝐁𝐡𝐮𝐭𝐚𝐧 𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐟𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐀𝐢𝐫 𝐒𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐢𝐜𝐞𝐬 𝐀𝐠𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐊𝐮𝐰𝐚𝐢𝐭

By Tshering Yangden

The Economic Affairs Committee (EAC) presented the Air Services Agreement (ASA) between the Royal Government of Bhutan and the Government of the State of Kuwait to the National Council for ratification during the sixth sitting. The agreement, initially ratified during the first session of the fourth Parliament of the National Assembly, underwent further review by the National Council before being unanimously approved.

Sonam Tenzin, Member of Parliament (MP), Deputy Chairperson of the EAC, provided an overview of the agreement, its framework, and its implications for Bhutan. He highlighted that the ASA adheres to the Chicago Convention and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards, ensuring compliance with global norms in aviation.

The ASA is expected to unlock a range of benefits for Bhutan, including enhanced air connectivity, increased tourism, job creation, and higher revenue from aviation activities. It also aims to provide passengers with more travel options at competitive airfares, aligning with Bhutan’s broader economic aspirations, such as the development of Gelephu Mindfulness City.

“This agreement promotes trade and connectivity, helping Bhutan integrate further with the global economy,” said MP Sonam Tenzin.

Despite the anticipated benefits, MPs voiced concerns about the challenges that could accompany the ASA. Sonam Tobgyel, MP for Trashigang, questioned the tangible impact of Bhutan’s existing air service agreements with eight other nations, noting minimal visible benefits to the economy, finances, or tourism industry. He urged the government to explore how Kuwait could contribute more significantly to Bhutan’s economic growth and development plans.

Ugyen Tshering, MP for Paro, emphasized the potential benefits for Bhutanese youth studying and working in Kuwait, as well as the opportunities for growth in the tourism sector. However, he cautioned that increased air traffic could lead to environmental concerns, including air and noise pollution, potentially affecting the quality of life for residents near aviation hubs.

Jamyang Namgyal, MP for Pemagatshel, stressed the importance of enabling Bhutanese carriers to land in foreign countries rather than focusing solely on foreign flights landing in Bhutan. He highlighted the challenges posed by Paro International Airport, which is globally recognized as one of the most dangerous airports due to its terrain. “The risks associated with landing at Paro require airlines to pay additional fees, which could deter operations,” he said.

Birendra Chimorida, MP for Dagana supported the agreement, emphasizing its role in creating financial opportunities and facilitating the landing of commercial and charter flights in Bhutan. He noted that without such agreements, these flights would not be permitted to operate.

Tshewang Rinchen, MP for Samdrup Jongkhar, echoed this sentiment, describing the ASA as a step forward compared to earlier agreements. He added that this deal with Kuwait would become Bhutan’s ninth air service agreement, with plans for a total of 13 agreements in the future.

With unanimous backing from all 22 members of the National Council on November 21, the agreement is scheduled for official adoption on December 6, 2024.