The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is advancing efforts to stimulate the economy and tourism by partnering with Vietnam Airlines to launch the inaugural direct flight route "Ho Chi Minh City-Phuket" during the peak season for the Vietnamese market, aiming to attract over 689,000 quality Vietnamese tourists to Thailand by 2026.
Ms. Patranong Na Chiangmai, Deputy Governor for Asia and South Pacific Markets at TAT, stated that the launch of the direct Ho Chi Minh City-Phuket route is a tangible success following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between TAT and Vietnam Airlines on 28 May 2026. The timing is ideal, as June through August is when Vietnamese travelers most frequently visit Thailand. Expanding this route helps meet demand and offers more travel options to Phuket, a favorite destination for Vietnamese tourists. It also reinforces the strong relationship on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties between Thailand and Vietnam.
The inaugural flight (VN621) officially arrived at Phuket International Airport on 2 July 2026 at 17:50, carrying 152 Vietnamese tourists on the first flight. The airline has planned the following service arrangements.
To maintain business momentum, TAT's Ho Chi Minh City office plans to hold an Agent & Media FAM Trip from 7 to 11 July 2026 with key goals to attract investment as follows.
Regarding marketing and sales stimulation for the remainder of the year, TAT’s Ho Chi Minh City office continues to push the “Thai Lan – Càng Hiểu Càng Yêu” (The More You Know, The More You Love) campaign, promoting Thailand as a safe and worthwhile destination. Furthermore, in the final quarter of the year, TAT will collaborate with major Vietnamese partner Gotadi to launch promotions combining running events with Thai travel packages, aiming to reach the target of 689,000 Vietnamese tourists by the end of 2026.
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