Paro International Airport is the only international airport in Bhutan, serving as the country's primary gateway for both passengers and cargo. Situated in a deep valley at an elevation of approximately 7,332 feet (2,235 meters) above sea level, it is surrounded by Himalayan peaks reaching up to 18,000 feet, making it one of the most technically demanding airports in the world to operate. Due to the extreme terrain and challenging approach procedures, only a small number of specially certified pilots are permitted to land at Paro. The visual approach requires navigating steep turns through narrow mountain valleys, and operations are heavily weather-dependent, with frequent delays and cancellations during poor visibility conditions. The airport plays a central role in Bhutan's tightly controlled tourism industry. Druk Air, the national carrier, has historically been the dominant operator, though Bhutan Airlines also provides services. The airport has undergone capacity improvements in recent years to accommodate modest growth in visitor numbers.