TAT Welcomes Air France’s New Direct Paris–Phuket Service
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has welcomed the inaugural Air France direct service connecting Paris and Phuket, marking an expansion of Thailand’s long-haul air connectivity under TAT’s Airline Focus strategy. Flight AF156 departs Paris on 27 November at 15.50 hrs and arrives in Phuket at 09.25 hrs.
The welcome ceremony was presided over by H.E. Mr. Jean-Claude Poimboeuf, Ambassador of France to Thailand, together with Ms. Suladda Sarutilavan, Director of the TAT Europe Region, Mrs. Femke Kroese, General Manager for Southeast Asia and Oceania at Air France, and representatives from Phuket’s public and private tourism sectors.
Ms. Suladda noted that TAT continues to advance its Airline Focus strategy by working with key carriers, including Air France, to stimulate long-haul demand and strengthen access to priority international markets.
She added that France remains one of Thailand’s stable long-haul markets, supported by repeat visitors and a growing segment of luxury travellers. The new Paris–Phuket service aims to maintain market momentum and expand access to high-value segments.
Phuket’s position as a key destination in Southern Thailand—with offerings that include wellness activities, marine experiences, yacht tourism, and coastal landscapes—makes it a suitable gateway for French travellers seeking meaningful, experience-led journeys. The direct route is expected to support arrivals from Europe and advance Thailand’s sustainable tourism goals.
Mrs. Kroese said the start of Air France’s winter-season service between Paris and Phuket marks a step forward in connecting two well-established tourism destinations. Phuket becomes Air France’s second gateway in Thailand for the winter schedule. She highlighted the airline’s commitment to providing convenient and seamless travel for French visitors discovering Phuket’s natural and cultural attractions.
Air France will operate the Paris–Phuket route three times weekly using Boeing 777-200 aircraft with 328 seats through late March 2026. The airline also continues its two daily year-round flights between Paris and Suvarnabhumi Airport.
To support visibility in the French market, TAT and Air France are jointly promoting the Air France Digital Campaign – Inspirational Gold Package, using the airline’s digital platforms to raise awareness about travel to Thailand.
From 1 January to 30 November 2025, Thailand recorded 727,578 visitors from France, reflecting a 13.51% year-on-year increase. Most travellers are first-time visitors, many of whom travel independently and spend an average of 58,611 Baht per trip. The average length of stay is 17.22 days, with Bangkok, Phuket, Krabi, and Surat Thani among the preferred destinations. Thailand expects to welcome about 846,000 French visitors by the end of 2025.
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