The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) recently marked a further milestone in its efforts to boost international tourism with the arrival of a new Malaysia Airlines service in Chang Mai.
The launch of Malaysia Airlines’ direct flight from Kuala Lumpur to Chiang Mai was celebrated with great fanfare. The new Malaysian service promises a greater connectivity between these two vibrant cities.
MH722 Welcome Ceremony
The inaugural Flight MH772 received a warm welcome at Chiang Mai International Airport. As the aircraft taxied to its gate, it was greeted by a grand water cannon salute. This traditional aviation ceremony symbolizes good luck and a warm welcome for new air services.
Arriving passengers were treated to the full spectrum of Thai hospitality. They were presented with fresh floral garlands and witnessed a performance of traditional Northern Thai dance.
This cultural display offered visitors an immediate taste of the rich heritage that awaits them in Chiang Mai.
Flight Details and Existing Connections
The new service will operate five times weekly using a 297-seat Airbus A330neo. It offers ample capacity for both leisure and business travelers.
This addition complements the existing 39 daily international flights between Thai and Malaysian cities, operated by various airlines including AirAsia, Thai AirAsia, Firefly, Malaysia Airlines, Thai Airways International, and Batik Air.
Official Statements
Chiang Mai’s Vice Governor, Mr. Worawit Chaisawat, spoke of the importance of this new route: “This flight marks a major milestone for Chiang Mai International Airport. It now connects us to key cities across Thailand and internationally, including China, Taiwan, South Korea, Singapore, Laos, Myanmar, and Malaysia.”
Mr. Worawit led the welcoming ceremony, joined by Ms. Phimpha Ratanapruk, TAT Deputy Executive Director for ASEAN, South Asia and the South Pacific Region, and Emily Tan, Head of Global Marketing at Malaysia Airlines.
Their presence highlighted the significance of this new air link for both tourism and business sectors.
TAT Governor Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool added further comment. “This direct link between Chiang Mai and Kuala Lumpur supports the Thai government’s vision of making Thailand the Hub of ASEAN. We expect it to boost Malaysian visitor numbers significantly, contributing to our tourism growth strategy.”
Chiang Mai International Airport: A Growing Hub
Chiang Mai International Airport has been rapidly expanding its international connections in recent years. As the primary gateway to Northern Thailand, it plays a crucial role in the region’s tourism and economic development.
The airport features modern facilities capable of handling wide-body aircraft and has seen steady growth in passenger numbers. In 2019, before the global travel disruptions, it handled over 11 million passengers. The airport has two terminals – one for domestic flights and another for international services.
Recent upgrades have improved the airport’s capacity and passenger experience. These include expanded check-in areas, additional immigration counters, and enhanced baggage handling systems.
The airport’s location, just 4 kilometers from Chiang Mai city center, makes it highly convenient for travelers.
With the addition of the Kuala Lumpur route, Chiang Mai International Airport further cements its position as a key regional hub, offering connections to major cities across Asia and beyond.
Malaysian Tourism Market
Malaysia remains a crucial market for Thai tourism. In 2023, over 4.6 million Malaysian tourists generated 92 billion Baht in revenue.
This included more than 1.5 million visitors traveling overland across the Thai-Malaysian border.
TAT aims to attract over 5 million Malaysian visitors in 2024. Early indicators are promising – from January 1 to August 12, 2024, Malaysia tourist arrivals reached 3,029,594, up 27.65% compared to the same period in 2023.
Popular destinations for Malaysian tourists include Songkhla, Bangkok, Phuket, Krabi, Chon Buri, Chiang Mai, and Surat Thani. They particularly enjoy Thai food, massages, nightlife, historical sites, and beaches.
TAT continues to promote Thailand through strategic partnerships and targeted marketing campaigns, striving to maintain its position as a top destination for Malaysian travelers.
The new direct flight to Chiang Mai is expected to open up the northern region to more Malaysian visitors, diversifying their travel experiences in Thailand.
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