The Tourism Authority Of Thailand Unveils Game-Changing Paris-Phuket Direct Flight, Paving The Way For A Surge In Luxury French Tourism

Published on December 3, 2025

The Tourism Authority of Thailand has set the stage for a major boost in luxury tourism with the launch of Air France’s direct flight from Paris to Phuket, opening up new opportunities for high-value French travellers to explore Thailand. This strategic route, part of Thailand’s ongoing efforts to enhance long-haul connectivity, aims to tap into France’s growing luxury travel segment. The Paris-Phuket direct service offers seamless access to one of Thailand’s most popular destinations, positioning Phuket as a prime gateway for French visitors seeking quality experiences, wellness retreats, and stunning landscapes.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has officially celebrated the launch of Air France’s inaugural direct flight from Paris to Phuket, marking a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to enhance long-haul connectivity. This new route is part of TAT’s Airline Focus strategy, which aims to attract high-value tourists from key global markets. Flight AF156 departs Paris at 15:50 on 27th November and arrives in Phuket at 09:25 the following day, providing an easy and efficient way for French visitors to reach one of Thailand’s most iconic tourist destinations.

The welcoming ceremony for this new service saw a gathering of TAT officials and representatives from Phuket’s tourism industry, both public and private. The event highlighted the collaborative efforts between the airline and the tourism board to drive long-haul tourism to Thailand, particularly from France, a key market known for its repeat visitors and increasing luxury travel segment.

The launch of the Paris–Phuket route is a strategic move for TAT, continuing its Airline Focus strategy to boost international arrivals and expand Thailand’s global connectivity. The French market has consistently performed well for Thailand, with a steady rise in tourism numbers over the years. The new flight further strengthens this relationship by offering French travellers a direct, convenient option to visit Phuket, a destination known for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and luxury resorts.

Phuket has long been a favorite of international visitors and is one of Thailand’s top destinations for both leisure and luxury travel. Known for its picturesque landscapes, Phuket offers a variety of premium tourism experiences such as wellness retreats, yachting activities, and cultural tours. The island’s appeal as a high-end destination makes it a perfect fit for the growing segment of French travellers who seek quality and meaningful travel experiences. With the introduction of Air France’s new direct service, more French tourists can easily access Phuket and discover its unique offerings.

The new flight also aligns with TAT’s goal of positioning Thailand as a leader in sustainable and experience-driven tourism. As global travel trends shift towards more immersive and authentic experiences, the new Paris–Phuket connection caters to travellers seeking high-quality holidays that focus on culture, nature, and well-being. Phuket’s luxury resorts, spas, and exclusive tours provide the ideal backdrop for French visitors looking to enjoy an unforgettable vacation that goes beyond the typical tourist experience.

Air France’s commitment to expanding its services in Thailand is evident with the launch of this direct route. The airline now operates three weekly flights between Paris and Phuket using a Boeing 777-200 aircraft, which accommodates 328 passengers. The service will run through March 2026, making it a year-round option for French tourists eager to explore one of Southeast Asia’s most popular destinations. In addition to the Paris–Phuket route, Air France also operates two daily flights between Paris and Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport, offering additional travel options for French travellers heading to Thailand.

TAT and Air France have also partnered on the Air France Digital Campaign – Inspirational Gold Package. This digital marketing initiative uses Air France’s platforms to increase awareness of Thailand’s tourism offerings among French travellers. By leveraging Air France’s wide reach, the campaign aims to highlight the diverse attractions Thailand has to offer, from its bustling cities and cultural landmarks to its serene islands and high-end resorts. Through this collaboration, TAT hopes to increase French visitation to Thailand and encourage more travellers to explore all that the country has to offer.

Tourism from France to Thailand has been on the rise in recent years. Between January and November 2025, Thailand welcomed 727,578 French visitors, marking an increase of 13.51% compared to the previous year. This uptick in arrivals reflects France’s continued importance as a source market for Thailand’s tourism industry. French visitors tend to stay longer, with an average stay of 17.22 days, and spend an average of 58,611 Baht per trip. The majority of these visitors are first-time travellers, many of whom are independent travellers (FIT) who seek customized and flexible travel experiences. Popular destinations among French tourists in Thailand include Bangkok, Phuket, Krabi, and Surat Thani.

Looking ahead, Thailand expects to welcome 846,000 French visitors by the end of 2025, driven by the launch of the new Paris–Phuket route and the continued promotion of the country as a top travel destination. The new flight is not just a boost for Phuket but also for Thailand’s tourism sector as a whole, underscoring the importance of strengthening long-haul connectivity and targeting high-value tourists.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand is driving a surge in luxury tourism with the launch of Air France’s direct Paris-Phuket flight, connecting French travellers to one of Thailand’s most sought-after destinations. This new route enhances long-haul connectivity, tapping into the growing demand for high-end travel experiences.

In summary, the launch of Air France’s direct service from Paris to Phuket represents a significant step forward for Thailand’s tourism strategy. By providing a direct link to one of the most popular destinations in the country, the new flight opens the door for more French travellers to experience Thailand’s unique blend of culture, luxury, and natural beauty. Through strategic partnerships and marketing initiatives, Thailand is poised to continue growing its presence in key international markets and position itself as a leading destination for high-end, experience-driven travel.