Thailand’s reputation as a global hub for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) is set to soar with the launch of 11 new direct international flights connecting its key MICE cities—Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai, and Pattaya—between 2024 and 2025. This significant connectivity boost positions Thailand as an increasingly accessible and preferred destination for business travellers, event planners, and corporate groups worldwide.
The influx of new routes operated by leading international airlines reflects the growing demand for Thailand as a go-to MICE destination. These new flights span markets in Europe, Central Asia, East Asia, the Middle East, and the Indian Subcontinent, underscoring Thailand’s global appeal.
Bangkok: Gateway to the World
Bangkok, Thailand’s bustling capital and a cornerstone of its MICE offering, has witnessed a surge in connectivity with the European market.
- British Airways resumed its direct London-Bangkok flights on October 28, 2024. Initially offering three weekly flights, the schedule will increase to five from January to February 2025, settling at four weekly in March.
- ITA Airways launched direct flights between Rome and Bangkok on November 17, 2024, with five weekly flights.
- Thai Airways International (TG) reintroduced direct flights between Bangkok and Brussels starting December 1, 2024.
- Looking ahead to October 29, 2025, Norse Atlantic Airways plans to operate direct flights between Stockholm and Bangkok.
Phuket: Expanding Horizons
Increased flights in times of the new SAT1 terminal at Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok.
Phuket, an island paradise and rising star in MICE tourism, is capitalizing on new direct connections in 2024.
- Air India launched its second daily Delhi-Phuket route on June 1, excluding Wednesdays. On December 24, 2024, Air India Express will debut four weekly direct flights from Surat to Phuket.
- Air Astana, targeting a new market, began its direct Astana-Phuket route on October 26, 2024.
- Saudia Airlines inaugurated flights from Riyadh to Phuket on December 2 and Jeddah to Phuket on December 4, 2024.
Chiang Mai: A Northern Jewel
Chiang Mai’s connectivity received a significant boost with the addition of routes catering to East Asian and Middle Eastern markets.
- On October 27, 2024, Hong Kong Airlines initiated direct flights between Chiang Mai and Hong Kong, joining Thai Air Asia and Hong Kong Express on this route.
- Etihad Airways will launch four weekly flights from Abu Dhabi to Chiang Mai starting November 4, 2025.
Pattaya: A Coastal Gateway
Phuket beaches await MICE travellers from more overseas flights.
Pattaya’s U-Tapao International Airport is also stepping into the spotlight. From March to May 2025, S7 Airlines will operate five weekly flights connecting Pattaya to Irkutsk, enhancing access for Russian travellers.
A Statement of Confidence from TCEB
Commenting on these developments, Mr. Chiruit Isarangkun Na Ayuthaya, President of the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB), emphasized the strategic importance of these new routes.
“The increased flight connectivity between Thailand’s MICE cities and diverse overseas markets is living proof of Thailand’s status as a preferred destination for global travelers. TCEB remains committed to working closely with stakeholders to craft innovative products tailored to the evolving needs of MICE planners and travelers.”
To ensure seamless travel experiences, TCEB is also prioritizing fast-track immigration lanes in Phuket and Chiang Mai, complementing the existing service in Bangkok.
Chiang Mai in the North welcomes more direct flights from Hong Kong.
Strategic Impacts for Thailand’s MICE Landscape
The enhanced connectivity is expected to bolster Thailand’s MICE industry significantly, attract high-spending international delegates, foster business opportunities, and drive economic growth. The new routes’ diverse origins—from Europe to the Middle East and Central Asia—reflect Thailand’s robust global outreach efforts.
Why Thailand Leads the MICE World
Thailand’s commitment to infrastructure, cultural allure, and world-class facilities make it a MICE powerhouse. Adding these new flights underscores its strategic appeal and reinforces its position as a sustainable and forward-looking MICE destination.
With the promise of enhanced accessibility and world-class offerings, Thailand’s MICE cities are ready to welcome the world. Explore the latest updates and plan your next event in the Land of Smiles.
Written by: Supaporn Pholrach
