Thailand is enhancing its aviation connections on the global stage through strategic alliances with Vietnam Airlines and flydubai, while simultaneously upgrading its regional airport infrastructure to better support tourism and improve connectivity. In a move to cater to the increasing travel demand from Vietnam, Vietnam Airlines inaugurated a new route from Ho Chi Minh City to Phuket on July 2. This service runs four times a week and aims to accommodate an annual capacity of approximately 39,500 seats. During the first half of the year alone, over 300,000 Vietnamese tourists visited Thailand, highlighting the importance of this new route.
Expanding its network further, flydubai commenced daily flights between Dubai and Bangkok on July 1. Looking ahead, the airline plans to double this service to twice daily flights starting September 15, thereby strengthening the air travel link between the United Arab Emirates and Thailand. These developments are part of a broader effort by Thailand to bolster its position as a major hub for international travel in the region.
In addition to expanding international flight routes, Thailand is focusing on enhancing its domestic aviation capabilities. The country has announced plans to implement the Aerodrome Flight Information Service (AFIS) at its regional airports. This system is designed to improve air traffic management and operational efficiency, thereby facilitating better access to secondary cities. Such enhancements are crucial for maintaining safety and efficiency as air traffic continues to grow.
The initial deployment of the AFIS system is set for Phrae and Phetchabun airports by 2028, with potential expansions to other regional airports in the future. By investing in these technological upgrades, Thailand aims to not only improve the capacity and safety of its regional airports but also to encourage economic growth and tourism in less traveled parts of the country.