Thailand is enhancing its aviation connectivity by forming new alliances with Vietnam Airlines and flydubai, alongside advancing its regional airport infrastructure to bolster tourism and travel links. On July 2, Vietnam Airlines inaugurated a new route connecting Ho Chi Minh City with Phuket, offering four weekly flights. This service caters to the increasing travel demand from Vietnamese tourists, with over 300,000 having visited Thailand in the first half of the year. The new route is expected to provide an annual capacity of approximately 39,500 seats.
Meanwhile, flydubai has started operating daily flights between Dubai and Bangkok as of July 1. Demonstrating a commitment to further enhance connectivity between the UAE and Thailand, the airline plans to expand this service to twice daily starting September 15. This development signifies a strengthening of travel links between the Middle East and Southeast Asia, offering more options for travelers from both regions.
In a separate initiative aimed at enhancing air traffic management, Thailand is set to introduce the Aerodrome Flight Information Service (AFIS) at its regional airports. This system is designed to improve operational efficiency and enhance access to secondary cities within the country. Initially, AFIS will be implemented at Phrae and Phetchabun airports by 2028, with possible future expansion to other regional airports.
These strategic moves are part of Thailand’s broader effort to support its tourism sector and improve its aviation infrastructure. By upgrading airport systems and increasing flight connections, Thailand aims to accommodate growing travel demands and facilitate easier access to various destinations within the country.