British Airways (BA) has commenced a new direct service between London and Bangkok, operating three flights per week from 28 October 2024 until 26 April 2025. The inaugural flight, designated BA2231, departed London Gatwick at 9.15 pm local time and arrived at Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok on 29 October 2024, at 4.15 pm local time.
The new route marks a significant step in revitalising long-haul tourism, particularly as British Airways had previously suspended its direct flights from London Heathrow to Bangkok in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This suspension resulted in an 18% decline in seating capacity for travellers to Thailand compared to pre-pandemic levels in 2019.
Key officials from the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) were on hand to welcome the inaugural flight. Deputy Governor Siripakorn Cheawsamut emphasised the significance of the new service in attracting quality tourists from the UK. The TAT is focusing on niche segments, including luxury travel, wellness, sports tourism, and responsible tourism.
To further enhance its service, British Airways plans to increase its weekly flights from 10 January to 30 March 2025, adding an additional flight per week. From 12 January to 24 February 2025, the airline will expand its operations to five flights per week.
In addition to the new route, British Airways has entered a codeshare agreement with Bangkok Airways, offering seamless connections to popular destinations such as Chiang Mai, Phuket, and Koh Samui, as well as flights to Phnom Penh and Siem Reap in Cambodia.
Arts and Culture
Journey Through ‘Blending Souls’
Art lovers are in for a remarkable experience at the National Gallery, which is hosting the “Blending Souls: Indonesia – Thailand Painting Exhibition.” This vibrant showcase runs from October 4 to 30, 2024, at Exhibition Building 6 on Chao Fah Road in Bangkok, celebrating the rich artistic and cultural connections between Indonesia and Thailand.
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The TAT is implementing an Airline Focus strategy, collaborating with airline partners to boost route offerings and increase flight frequencies. The agency aims to attract 1,000,000 UK tourists to Thailand by the end of 2024, seeing the resumption of British Airways’ route as a crucial component in achieving this target.
Recent figures indicate a strong rebound in UK tourism to Thailand, with approximately 718,540 UK travellers visiting the country from 1 January to 23 October 2024, reflecting a 19.66% increase compared to the same period in 2023. These visitors typically enjoy an average stay of 18 days and spend an average of 64,488 THB per trip, with 94% opting for independent travel while 6% participate in organised tours.
