Thailand is making significant strides in international connectivity as eight airlines introduce new direct flights to its four primary MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) cities. The key cities are Bangkok, Phuket, Pattaya, and Chiang Mai.
With three more airlines set to launch routes in 2025, the country is solidifying its position as a premier global destination for business and leisure travelers.
European Market Expansion
Bangkok is experiencing a remarkable lift in European connectivity. British Airways has strategically resumed London-Bangkok routes this year. This will increase frequency from three to five weekly flights in January and February 2025, with a planned four flights in March.
This expansion signals a strong recovery and growing demand for travel between the United Kingdom and Thailand.
Complementing this, ITA Airways launched direct Rome-Bangkok services on November 17. The national carrier will offer five weekly flights that open up new corridors for Italian travelers.
The European connection further strengthens with Thai Airways International’s restart of Brussels routes on December 1. This will provide more options for travelers from Belgium and surrounding regions.
Looking ahead, Norse Atlantic Airways is scheduled to inaugurate Stockholm-Bangkok flights in October 2025. This further diversifies the European market access to Thailand.
Phuket: A Hub of International Connections
Phuket is rapidly emerging as a critical international gateway, attracting diverse airlines from multiple regions. Air India has expanded its presence by introducing a second daily flight from Delhi, operating six days a week.
The island is also welcoming Air India Express, which will launch four weekly flights from Surat to Phuket starting December 24. It will enhance both domestic and international connectivity.
The island is successfully attracting emerging markets, with Air Astana beginning direct flights from Astana on October 26. The move signals Kazakhstan’s growing interest in Thai tourism.
Middle Eastern markets are also making significant inroads. Saudia Airlines will inaugurate new routes from Riyadh on December 2 and Jeddah on December 4. This directly connects the Arabian Peninsula with the tropical destination.
Chiang Mai and Pattaya: Expanding Horizons
Chiang Mai continues to strengthen its international profile with Hong Kong Airlines launching a direct flight on October 27, joining Thai Air Asia and Hong Kong Express in serving this route.
The city’s international appeal will further expand with Etihad Airways planning four weekly Abu Dhabi-Chiang Mai flights starting November 4, 2025, opening new possibilities for travelers from the United Arab Emirates.
Pattaya’s U-Ta Pao airport is set to welcome international travelers with five weekly flights from Irkutsk, operated by S7 Airlines, beginning March 30. This route highlights Thailand’s ability to attract airlines from diverse and unexpected markets.
Strategic Vision and Future Outlook
Mr. Chiruit Isarangkun Na Ayuthaya, President of the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB), views these developments as more than just increased flight routes.
He emphasizes TCEB’s commitment to developing sophisticated MICE destinations that cater to evolving global travel needs.
The bureau is particularly focusing on enhancing traveler experience, with plans to introduce fast-track immigration lanes in Phuket and Chiang Mai, complementing existing services in Bangkok.
About TCEB
As a government agency established in 2004, the Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau operates under the Prime Minister’s supervision.
Its mission extends beyond simple promotion, aiming to position Thailand as a global leader in business events and mega conferences, ultimately driving strategic industry growth and national economic development.
This unprecedented expansion of international connectivity serves to highlight Thailand’s growing importance in the global travel ecosystem.
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