Thailand Welcomes Air France’s New Paris-Phuket Flight, Enhancing Long-Haul Connectivity

Published on December 1, 2025

The Air France direct Paris-Phuket flights align with the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s (TAT) goals of expanding long-haul air connections and are thus highly appreciated. Commencing on November 27, Air France will serve the first of what will be over 36 flights per year, and will enhance Thailand’s connectivity with Europe and further with the United States and Latin America. The new route for the winter season works to close off the gaps in TAT’s Airline Focus Program designed to increase high-value long-haul market and tourist demand for Thailand.

New Direct Service Enhances Long-Haul Connectivity

The introduction of Air France’s Paris-Phuket service strengthens Thailand’s position as a leading destination for European travelers. Flight AF156 departs Paris at 15:50 and arrives in Phuket at 09:25, offering seamless travel between two iconic destinations. The new service operates three times a week using a Boeing 777-200 aircraft with 328 seats, catering to both premium and leisure travelers looking to explore Thailand’s tropical beauty.

The inauguration ceremony took place at Phuket International Airport and was attended by key figures, including H.E. Mr. Jean-Claude Poimboeuf, the French Ambassador to Thailand, Ms. Suladda Sarutilavan, Director of the TAT Europe Region, and Mrs. Femke Kroese, General Manager for Southeast Asia and Oceania at Air France. This partnership highlights the shared vision between TAT and Air France to increase air access and drive tourism growth between France and Thailand.

TAT’s Airline Focus Strategy and France’s Market Potential

Ms. Suladda Sarutilavan emphasized that TAT’s strategy is centered around collaboration with key international carriers like Air France to stimulate long-haul demand. “France remains one of Thailand’s most resilient and high-performing markets,” she said. “The new Paris-Phuket service will provide greater access to high-value tourists from France, a country known for its strong repeat visitation and growing luxury travel segment.”

France continues to be a crucial source of tourism for Thailand, with French visitors consistently ranking among the top international arrivals. The launch of the Paris-Phuket route is expected to bolster this trend, attracting a more diverse range of tourists, from first-time visitors to returning travelers seeking premium experiences.

Phuket: A Prime Destination for High-Value French Tourists

Phuket’s reputation as one of Thailand’s premier tourism destinations, particularly for affluent travelers, makes it an ideal entry point for French tourists. The island is known for its world-class resorts, luxury spas, vibrant wellness offerings, and high-end yacht activities. With its picturesque beaches, clear waters, and premium tourism products, Phuket aligns perfectly with the preferences of French travelers who seek meaningful and high-quality travel experiences.

The Paris-Phuket service will help strengthen Phuket’s position as a key hub for French visitors, especially those interested in wellness, relaxation, and adventure tourism. The island’s ability to offer a combination of cultural experiences, outdoor activities, and luxurious accommodations makes it a top choice for visitors seeking both leisure and cultural immersion.

Winter Travel and Sustainable Tourism Focus

The timing of Air France’s Paris-Phuket service during the winter season is strategic, aiming to capitalize on the peak travel period. This service will not only cater to leisure tourists but will also help support Thailand’s goal of positioning itself as a year-round destination. Phuket is particularly attractive during the winter months, with its warm climate and stunning beaches offering an escape from the colder temperatures in Europe.

Sustainability is also a central theme of Thailand’s tourism strategy, and the new Air France service is aligned with the country’s vision of sustainable, experience-driven tourism. As more travelers seek eco-conscious travel experiences, Thailand is focusing on promoting environmentally-friendly tourism initiatives, such as community-based tourism and eco-resorts, while still providing luxury offerings that cater to high-end international visitors.

Collaboration with Air France: Digital Campaigns and Market Visibility

To further boost the visibility of Thailand’s tourism offerings among French travelers, TAT and Air France have launched the “Air France Digital Campaign – Inspirational Gold Package.” This digital marketing initiative uses Air France‘s extensive online platforms to reach French audiences and increase awareness of Thailand’s rich cultural and natural attractions. Through the campaign, travelers will learn more about the diverse experiences Thailand has to offer, from its famous beaches to its rich cultural heritage and vibrant cities.

The collaboration between TAT and Air France is designed to maximize engagement with French travelers and encourage them to explore destinations beyond Bangkok and Phuket, such as Krabi, Surat Thani, and other lesser-known regions of Thailand. By promoting these destinations, TAT aims to encourage travelers to explore more of Thailand and experience the country’s diverse tourism offerings.

Thailand’s Growing Appeal to French Travelers

In the first eleven months of 2025, Thailand welcomed 727,578 French visitors, marking a 2.46% increase compared to the previous year. French travelers are known for their longer stays, with an average length of stay of 17.22 days and an average spend of 58,611 Baht per trip. With the introduction of the Paris-Phuket route, these numbers are expected to rise significantly, further contributing to the country’s tourism revenue.

Phuket, as one of the most popular destinations for French tourists, will benefit greatly from the direct air link, which provides greater accessibility and convenience for travelers. The increased flow of visitors from France will stimulate the local economy, benefiting hotels, restaurants, tour operators, and various other sectors in Phuket and beyond.

Looking Ahead: Strengthening Thailand’s Global Appeal

The recent Paris-Phuket service strengthens Thailand’s tourism marketing strategy worldwide. More long-haul processors into Thailand’s Key European Markets provide opportunities to sustain the tourism sector’s growth. Tourism revenue and International passenger arrivals will increase as the travel and tourism service provides more French clients active travel processing to Phuket and other tourism destinations in Thailand.