The Gelephu Mindfulness City Authority (GMCA) signed the airfield construction contract with Rigsar-Vajra Joint Venture (RVJV) this week. This deal covers the core infrastructure of Gelephu International Airport, including a 3-kilometre runway designed to handle wide-bodied commercial aircraft, taxiways, and aprons. It’s a critical step for a project that aims to redefine Bhutan’s connectivity.
RVJV is already on-site, finishing up the initial package-1 earthworks. Work areas will be handed over progressively over the coming month, allowing the airfield build to start immediately. The scope is massive: airfield ground lighting, an ATC tower, integrated buildings, and the specialist systems needed for all-weather operations.
This is one of the two largest remaining contracts for the facility. The other is the Passenger Terminal Building and its associated landside works. GMCA co-chief executive officer Lee Seow Hiang called the award a significant step for the airport’s development. The project is slated to open in December 2029, alongside the terminal.
Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC) is a highly autonomous region established under a royal charter, complete with its own executive, legislative, and judicial powers. The airport, designated with IATA code GLU and ICAO code VQGP, currently operates with a 1,500-metre runway. The new 3km strip will vastly improve air connectivity to this emerging hub.