Thailand is enhancing its global aviation connections through strategic collaborations with Vietnam Airlines and flydubai, alongside efforts to upgrade its regional airport infrastructure. These initiatives are aimed at bolstering connectivity and fostering tourism growth.
On July 2, Vietnam Airlines inaugurated a new service linking Ho Chi Minh City and Phuket, offering four weekly flights. This route is designed to cater to the increasing demand for travel from Vietnam, a country that saw over 300,000 of its citizens visiting Thailand in the first half of the year. With an annual capacity of around 39,500 seats, the new route is poised to facilitate more visitors between the two countries.
Meanwhile, flydubai has launched daily flights between Dubai and Bangkok starting July 1. This service is set to expand to twice daily flights beginning September 15, thereby strengthening the air connection between the United Arab Emirates and Thailand. Such expansions are expected to further integrate the two regions, providing enhanced travel options for tourists and business travelers alike.
In a separate development, Thailand is preparing to implement the Aerodrome Flight Information Service (AFIS) at its regional airports. This initiative aims to improve air traffic management, boost operational efficiency, and enhance access to less frequented cities. Phrae and Phetchabun airports are slated to be the first to adopt the AFIS system by 2028, with potential expansion to other regional airports under consideration.