The Bhutan Civil Aviation Authority (BCAA) issued an Air Operator Certificate (AOC) to Heli Bhutan Private Limited on April 22, 2025
This significant achievement marks a new era for Bhutan’s aviation sector, with Heli Bhutan becoming the first private helicopter operator in the country to receive an AOC with a fleet of one H125. The certification process was conducted in accordance with the Bhutan Civil Aviation Requirements.
The AOC was granted after the successful completion of a comprehensive certification process that involved close coordination between various technical divisions of BCAA. The process included:
- Heliport Approval Audit by the Aerodrome Section, ensuring the infrastructure meets safety and operational requirements.
- Approval of Continuing Airworthiness Management Organisation (CAMO) and Approved Maintenance Organisation (AMO), along with the issuance of Certificate of Airworthiness (CofA) by the Airworthiness Section, confirming the airworthiness compliance of the aircraft.
- Initial AOC Certification Audit by the Flight Operations Section, verifying operational readiness, procedures, personnel qualifications, and safety management systems.
The AOC was formally handed over to the management of Heli Bhutan by Mr. Samten Dorjee, Offtg.Director in an opening official ceremony at Heli Bhutan at Thimphu.
Bhutan Civil Aviation Authority would like to congratulate Heli Bhutan for their successful completion of this process and welcome them as a key partner in enhancing Bhutan’s air connectivity.