Thailand is making significant strides in enhancing its international aviation network by forming new alliances with Vietnam Airlines and flydubai, alongside upgrading its regional airport infrastructure. These efforts aim to bolster connectivity and support the thriving tourism sector in the region.
On July 2, Vietnam Airlines inaugurated a new route connecting Ho Chi Minh City and Phuket, offering four weekly flights with an annual capacity of approximately 39,500 seats. This new service is designed to accommodate the increasing travel demand from Vietnam, which saw over 300,000 visitors to Thailand in the first half of the year alone.
In addition, flydubai has introduced daily flights between Dubai and Bangkok starting July 1, with plans to double the frequency to twice daily from September 15. This move will enhance the air link between the United Arab Emirates and Thailand, providing more options for travelers between the two regions.
Thailand is also set to implement the Aerodrome Flight Information Service (AFIS) at its regional airports, a step aimed at improving air traffic management and operational efficiency while increasing access to secondary cities. The AFIS system is expected to be operational first at Phrae and Phetchabun airports by 2028, with potential expansion to other regional airports thereafter.