Thailand Looking at Charter Flights to Boost Arrivals – A Key Initiative to Draw More Tourists

In a concerted effort to revitalise tourism, the Thai Tourism Ministry, and the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) recently discussed stimulating charter flight traffic to bolster the number of visitors flocking to the ‘Land of Smiles’. Apart from boosting arrivals, such initiatives are seen as vital to also meet the ambitious goal of welcoming 40 million people to the country this year, set by Srettha Thavisin, the Prime Minister of Thailand. To help achieve this, the ministry held a meeting with TAT on 19th February 2024 to strategies which included plans for charter flights from nearby nations as well as more distant destinations.

Some of the targeted countries and regions were China, South Korea, Scandinavia, Russia, and certain areas of Europe. China remains a key source market for tourism in Thailand and expanding charter flights to secondary cities there could significantly increase the number of Chinese tourists. This also comes at the perfect time since from 1st March 2024, the country is granting visa-free entry to travellers from China. From city adventures at resorts in Bangkok to island escapades at the top hotels in Koh Samui, Thailand has much to offer. Getaways to beachside properties like Avani Chaweng Samui Hotel & Beach Club continue to be a key draw for tourists and the addition of charter flights will no doubt help to bring in more arrivals.