Bangkok: Minister Atthakorn Sirilathayakorn has expressed enthusiasm over IndiGo’s interest in expanding direct flight routes to Thailand, specifically targeting both primary and secondary cities. The move is expected to boost the annual influx of Indian tourists to over 2 million, enhance regional tourism revenue distribution, and support local economic growth.
According to Thai News Agency, discussions were held between Air Chief Marshal Manat Chavanaprayoon, the Director-General of the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT), and senior executives from IndiGo Airlines during the 42nd Session of the ICAO Assembly. The talks, involving Mr. RK Singh, Special Director, and Mr. Rajan Malhotra, Vice President of Aeropolitical and Industry Affairs, are seen as a positive development for Thailand’s tourism economy.
IndiGo, India’s largest private airline with a fleet exceeding 400 aircraft, has shown interest in expanding its direct flights beyond current routes like Bangkok and Phuket. The airline aims to include secondary cities and major tourist destinations such as Udon Thani, Surat Thani, Hat Yai, and Chiang Rai, along with other regional airports in Thailand.
The introduction of new direct flight routes will offer Indian tourists more convenient travel options to Thailand. This initiative aligns with government policies focused on enhancing tourism quality, alleviating congestion in major tourist spots, and promoting local economic sustainability.
Minister Atthakorn emphasized the importance of this partnership with IndiGo Airlines, highlighting its role in boosting tourist arrivals and reinforcing Thailand’s reputation as a global destination. The collaboration underscores the government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen commercial aviation ties with international airlines, particularly in South Asia.
Thailand currently attracts around 2 million Indian tourists annually, marking India as a significant market with promising growth prospects. The additional direct flights from IndiGo are projected to increase Indian tourist numbers by several hundred thousand annually, benefiting the tourism economy and related sectors such as hotels, restaurants, travel, and local retail.