Thailand Welcomes Kazakh Tourists with SCAT Airlines’ New Shymkent-Bangkok Route

Published on December 16, 2025

In a significant move to bolster tourism and strengthen international air links, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) recently celebrated the press launch of SCAT Airlines’ new Shymkent–Bangkok service. This initiative marks a key milestone in enhancing direct connectivity between Thailand and Kazakhstan, reflecting the growing importance of the Central Asia market to Thailand’s tourism sector.

The event saw the participation of prominent dignitaries and industry leaders, including H.E. Mr. Margulan Baimuhan, Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan to Thailand; Ms. Chiravadee Khunsub, TAT Deputy Governor for International Marketing covering Europe, America, the Middle East, and Africa; and Mr. Nikolay Buryakov, Commercial Director of SCAT Airlines. Their presence underscored the critical role of public–private collaboration in expanding Thailand’s international air services and promoting mutual economic and cultural ties.

Thailand’s appeal as a premier long-haul destination was emphasized during the launch. Ms. Chiravadee highlighted the country’s diverse offerings, noting that Thailand’s rich history, vibrant culture, and scenic landscapes continue to captivate Kazakhstani travellers. “From sacred temples to world-renowned cuisine and stunning coastal vistas, Thailand provides unforgettable experiences at every hour,” she remarked. She also extended gratitude to SCAT Airlines for its close collaboration with the TAT Moscow Office, which played a pivotal role in facilitating the smooth commencement of the Shymkent–Bangkok route.

The new service will operate twice weekly, on Tuesdays and Fridays, utilizing Boeing 737-800 aircraft configured with 180 economy seats. Flight DV469 touches down in Bangkok at 04:30 Hrs., while the return journey, DV470, departs at 05:40 Hrs. The inaugural flight on 16 December 2025 welcomed 140 passengers to Thailand’s capital, signaling strong initial demand for direct travel between the two cities.

The Shymkent–Bangkok route complements an already expanding network of Thailand–Kazakhstan air links, which includes SCAT Airlines and Air Astana services from Almaty and Astana to Bangkok and Phuket, as well as AirAsia flights connecting Almaty to Bangkok. This comprehensive network enhances travel flexibility and facilitates easier access to Thailand’s key tourism hubs, supporting growth in visitor numbers and encouraging wider regional connectivity.

Kazakhstan remains a strategically significant source market for Thailand. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, annual arrivals from Kazakhstan averaged 50,000–60,000 tourists. Post-pandemic recovery has been remarkable, with Thailand welcoming 172,489 Kazakh visitors in 2023—a year-on-year increase of 189%—followed by 195,089 visitors in 2024, reflecting further growth of 13.10%. In the period from 1 January to 14 December 2025, Thailand received 152,783 visitors from Kazakhstan, driven by expanded flight options, eased visa access, and sustained destination promotion efforts. These figures underscore the strong and resilient demand for Thailand among Central Asian travellers.

SCAT Airlines has strategically expanded its international footprint in recent years, adding more than ten new destinations across Asia and Europe in 2025. Operating from Shymkent International Airport, the airline’s growing fleet, in collaboration with Boeing, prioritizes safety, passenger comfort, and reliable connectivity. The introduction of the Shymkent–Bangkok service is expected to strengthen cultural exchange, tourism flows, and economic collaboration between Thailand and Kazakhstan, solidifying Thailand’s reputation as a preferred destination for Central Asian travellers.

By opening new routes and facilitating smoother international travel, Thailand continues to reinforce its position as a leading long-haul destination. The launch of direct flights from Shymkent not only boosts convenience for Kazakh travellers but also contributes to broader tourism development strategies, creating opportunities for regional cooperation, investment, and sustainable growth in Thailand’s tourism sector.

With enhanced air connectivity, Thailand is poised to welcome more visitors from Central Asia, offering unique experiences that blend rich heritage, natural beauty, and modern hospitality. The Shymkent–Bangkok route exemplifies the country’s commitment to accessible, high-quality travel while fostering stronger bilateral relations and cultural understanding between the two nations.