THAI launches direct Phuket - Hong Kong flights

27 October 2009

The launch ceremony at Phuket International Airport on Sunday.

PHUKET CITY: With the high season for tourism almost here, Thai Airways International (THAI) has begun direct flights between Phuket and Hong Kong three times weekly.

An Airbus 330-300 leaves Phuket at 1:15pm on Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays.

Return flights leave Hong Kong at 8am on the same days.

Forty-two seats are reserved for passengers in business class, with the remainder in economy.

The service began on Sunday.

THAI sales office general manager for Phuket Chantath Srininthra said the response has been positive, with seats already booked well into the new year.

“We hope this service will meet customer needs and generate income for the company,” he said.

Phuket Vice Governor Worapoj Ratthasima was at Phuket International Airport for the inaugural flight.

Thai AirAsia is also preparing to launch direct flights between the same cities ‘soon’ as part of its plan to establish Phuket as a second regional air hub for Thailand, Phuket Tourist Association Vice President Panu Maswongsa told the Gazette.

Thai AirAsia also plans to open direct flight service between Phuket and Chiang Mai starting in December.