Middle East Tensions Force Rerouting for Bhutanese Airlines, Threatening Tourism Recovery

The escalating conflict in the Middle East is creating significant challenges for Bhutan's aviation and tourism industries. Both of the country's airlines, Drukair and Bhutan Airlines, have been forced to reroute flights to avoid Iranian airspace for safety. These diversions, primarily affecting routes to Dubai and Bangkok, add 40 to 50 minutes of flight time. This not only increases fuel burn and operational costs but also disrupts schedules. The situation is causing concern within Bhutan's tourism sector, which fears that flight disruptions and cancellations could hamper its post-pandemic recovery.

Official Source: https://asianews.network/middle-east-conflict-hits-bhutans-aviation-and-tourism-industries/