In a boost for domestic tourism in Thailand, Thai AirAsia has returned to Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport after an almost eight year hiatus. The airline plans to operate routes to Chiang Mai five times daily, Phuket three times daily, Krabi twice daily and Surat Thani twice daily.
The move means the airline will be the only carrier in Thailand to fly from both of Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang – the capital’s two international gateways.
“Suvarnabhumi Airport is an excellent aviation hub with easy access to the city centre and high potential for international connecting flights in the future,” said Thai AirAsia CEO Santisuk Klongchaiya.
The addition of Suvarnabhumi also follows the news last week that AirAsia launched two brand new routes within Thailand, connecting the beach resort city of Hua Hin with Chiang Mai in the north and Udon Thani in the northeast.
“AirAsia is very pleased to be able to play an active part in reviving domestic tourism and travel in the country,” continued Klongchaiya. “This is the very first time AirAsia Thailand is flying to Hua Hin and we are pleased with the early demand for these new services with both routes registering a staggering 85% load factor on average. Hua Hin is one of the top destinations amongst Thai travellers and we are confident that both of these direct regional services will continue to be popular among visitors looking for a quick weekend getaway. Chiang Mai and Udon Thani are also popular destinations in the north and northeast, and we believe the introduction of these routes is not only great for consumers, but also for tourism and for stimulating local economies.”
