Phuket, 27 June 2025 – Thai AirAsia (flight code FD) today launched its inaugural direct flight between Phuket, Thailand (HKT) and Medan, Indonesia (KNO), marking another milestone in the airline’s expanding international network. The first inbound flight from Medan to Phuket received a warm welcome at Phuket International Airport, operating with a strong load factor of over 95%, underscoring robust travel demand between these two key ASEAN destinations.

The welcome ceremony was held in collaboration with Phuket International Airport, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), and representatives from the Consulate of the Republic of Indonesia in Songkhla, who joined to greet passengers and distribute commemorative souvenirs on arrival.

Ms. Tansita Akrarittipirom, Head of Commercial for Thai AirAsia, said: “We are excited to officially launch direct flights between Medan and Phuket—two culturally rich and tourism-driven cities. The near-capacity first flight is a testament to the potential of this route, which we believe will continue to grow and serve as a strong driver for tourism and economic activity in both regions. This new connection is perfectly aligned with our mission to promote travel that is convenient, accessible, and value-driven.”

Mr. Arun Lilapantisitti, Phuket Station Manager for Thai AirAsia said that the launch of the direct route between Medan and Phuket marks another significant milestone in strengthening Phuket's operational hub. The new service is expected to help drive the local economy and meaningfully contribute to the growth of the island’s tourism sector.

“Most of our AirAsia staff based in Phuket are also from the local community and nearby provinces. We are all very proud to play a part in AirAsia’s growth here in Phuket and to contribute to the development of the province as a globally recognized tourism destination,” said Mr. Arun.

Thai AirAsia now operates the Phuket–Medan route four times weekly—on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays—using the Airbus A320 aircraft. The service primarily targets Indonesian travelers seeking new seaside destinations with a wide variety of activities, ideal for all types of holidays. Passengers can also conveniently connect to a broader network of domestic and international routes operated by AirAsia from Phuket hub.

The launch of this new route supports the broader vision of establishing Phuket as a regional aviation hub, further strengthening Thailand’s position in the ASEAN travel and economic corridor.

Phuket currently serves as Thai AirAsia’s third operational hub, with two aircraft based at the airport. The airline operates international routes including Phuket–Chennai (3 flights per week), Phuket–Kochi (3 flights per week), Phuket–Kolkata (7 flights per week), and Phuket–Siem Reap (3 flights per week). With the addition of the new direct Phuket–Medan route, AirAsia now operates a total of five international routes from Phuket.

As for domestic connections, the airlie operates Phuket–Don Mueang ( 14 flights per day), Phuket–Suvarnabhumi ( Up to 5 flights per day), and Phuket–Chiang Mai ( Up to 4 flights per day).

AirAsia was recently named the World’s Best Low-Cost Airline by Skytrax for the 16th consecutive year, a recognition that reaffirms its commitment to delivering world-class service at affordable prices.