Emirates’ first commercial flight to southern Thailand departed Dubai on Monday with the launch of the non-stop, daily service to Phuket.
Phuket has become the airline’s 128th destination and the service will significantly boost the city’s international flight capacity and connect it to Emirates’ growing global network across six continents.
The launch also signifies Emirates’ commitment to Thailand, a country that the airline has been flying to since 1990 when it began flights to Bangkok.
Operated by a three-class Airbus A340-300 aircraft, EK378 departs Dubai at 12.45 and arrives at Phuket International Airport at 21.55. The return flight EK379 departs at 00.35 the following day and arrives at Dubai International Airport at 04.35.
“The launch of our non-stop, daily service between Phuket and Dubai perfectly coincides with the upcoming festive season, with Phuket being a favourite destination for many holidaymakers,” said Salem Obaidalla, Emirates’ Senior Vice President, Commercial Operations, Far East & Australasia. “Today heralds a new level of connectivity for the island with Emirates’ international network of more than 120 destinations.
“Emirates has a long-standing affiliation with Thailand and the country is indeed an important market for Emirates. This newly launched service will support Thailand’s tourism sector by enhancing inbound arrivals from the UAE and the larger Middle East region, as well as traditional markets such as Europe. Emirates will be working hard to promote Phuket across our network and continuing our support of Thailand and working closely with the government.”
“In the past few years Phuket has experienced a healthy reputation, and growth,” said Manit Boonchim, Executive Director of Europe Africa and Middle East Region, Tourism Authority of Thailand. “Phuket as an island is the gateway to the south part of Thailand, making it a major hub for people to expand their travels to Khao Lak, Phang-nga, Koh Samui, Trat, as well as Krabi, Koh Lipe, and many more.
“With TAT’s current strategy in promoting Phuket and beyond, we are sure that Emirates will play an important role in this plan, and TAT is confident that Phuket and beyond will succeed.”
