Thailand is bolstering its presence in the international aviation sector by forging new alliances with Vietnam Airlines and flydubai, while also upgrading its regional airport systems. These efforts aim to enhance connectivity and boost tourism. Vietnam Airlines has inaugurated a new route connecting Ho Chi Minh City to Phuket, which began on July 2. This service operates four times a week, offering an annual capacity of roughly 39,500 seats to cater to the growing travel demand from Vietnam. Notably, over 300,000 Vietnamese tourists visited Thailand in the first half of the year.
Meanwhile, flydubai has introduced daily flights between Dubai and Bangkok as of July 1. The airline plans to increase this service to twice daily starting September 15, thereby strengthening the travel link between the UAE and Thailand. These developments reflect a strategic move to expand Thailand’s international travel connections, which are vital for the tourism sector.
In addition to these new flight routes, Thailand is focusing on improving its regional airport infrastructure. The country plans to implement the Aerodrome Flight Information Service (AFIS) at its regional airports, which aims to enhance air traffic management and operational efficiency. This system is expected to facilitate better access to secondary cities, thereby supporting regional tourism and connectivity.
Initially, the AFIS will be introduced at Phrae and Phetchabun airports by 2028, with potential expansion to other regional airports in the foreseeable future. This initiative underscores Thailand’s commitment to upgrading its aviation infrastructure to meet the demands of increasing air travel and improve the overall travel experience for visitors.
Through these strategic partnerships and infrastructure upgrades, Thailand is positioning itself as a more accessible and attractive destination for international travelers, while simultaneously boosting its tourism industry and regional connectivity.