The Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (RGIA) in Hyderabad introduced four new direct weekly flights to Bangkok on Sunday, October 27, marking a significant boost for international travel between India and Thailand. The service, operated by Thai AirAsia, departs Hyderabad at 11:25 pm and reaches Don Mueang International Airport (DMK) in Bangkok by 4:30 am the next day. The return journey from Bangkok departs at 8:50 pm, arriving in Hyderabad by 10:55 pm, facilitating convenient and direct access for both leisure and business travellers.
Pradeep Panicker, CEO of GMR Hyderabad International Airport Limited, expressed optimism over the partnership with Thai AirAsia, underscoring that this expansion aligns with RGIA’s commitment to enhancing Hyderabad’s global connectivity. The newly introduced flights will strengthen economic, cultural, and tourism ties between Hyderabad and Bangkok. “This new service will promote economic cooperation and cater to the growing demand for travel options, providing more flexible and affordable choices for Hyderabad’s travellers,” Panicker stated. Chief Executive Officer of Thai AirAsia reaffirmed the airline’s strategic interest in expanding its network in India’s metropolitan centres. The introduction of the Hyderabad-Bangkok route brings the total number of flights by Thai AirAsia to India to 67 per week, covering cities such as Kolkata, Chennai, Jaipur, and now Hyderabad. This connectivity expansion is expected to support inbound tourism, contributing to economic growth in both regions.
The timing of the launch coincides with an increasing demand for international travel post-pandemic, as well as India’s booming outbound tourism. For sustainability, direct flights contribute to reducing the carbon footprint per journey by minimising layovers and fuel use, a factor that RGIA and Thai AirAsia highlight in their operational strategy. By simplifying access to Bangkok, this initiative enhances the ease of travel for Indian tourists and business professionals alike, supporting cultural exchange and sustainable tourism. With Bangkok’s appeal as a premier tourist destination known for its vibrant street life, exquisite temples, and bustling markets, these flights are expected to attract both new and returning travellers. This improved connectivity will offer a valuable travel opportunity for Hyderabad’s residents and businesses, showcasing the vital role of accessible air travel in fostering economic and cultural engagement across borders.
