Thailand unveils new strategy to boost long-haul flights in 2026
The initiative is expected to generate over ฿700 billion in revenue, reinforcing Thailand’s position as a top international destination.
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) plans to upgrade products and experiences and improve local access by attracting new airlines, as it aims to attract more long-haul visitors in 2026, which it expects will generate over ฿700 billion in revenue.
This initiative will be delivered under the NIYOM concept, which comprises New Experience, Inclusive Hospitality, Year-Round Destination, Originality & Authenticity, and Meaningful Travel.
“We are confident that long-haul markets in 2026 will continue to grow by no less than 5%, generating more than 700 billion baht in revenue, provided conditions remain normal in terms of geopolitics, disasters, and travel safety,” said Jirawadee Khunsap, Deputy Governor for Europe, the Americas, the Middle East and Africa at TAT.
In 2025, the top five long-haul markets were Russia (1,898,837, +8.80%), the United Kingdom (1,083,162, +12.14%), the United States (1,081,929, +4.97%), Germany (965,898, +10.60%), and France (816,935, +13.34%).
A notable emerging market was Poland, with 237,570 visitors (+31.46%), supported by direct flights to Thailand.
“Long-haul markets in 2025 ended the season strongly. They have strong potential, and Thailand remains a popular destination,” she said, noting that the rise in long-haul arrivals helped boost tourism revenue in some regions, as certain short-haul markets experienced fewer visitors.
This initiative will be delivered under the NIYOM concept, which comprises New Experience, Inclusive Hospitality, Year-Round Destination, Originality & Authenticity, and Meaningful Travel.
“We are confident that long-haul markets in 2026 will continue to grow by no less than 5%, generating more than 700 billion baht in revenue, provided conditions remain normal in terms of geopolitics, disasters, and travel safety,” said Jirawadee Khunsap, Deputy Governor for Europe, the Americas, the Middle East and Africa at TAT.
In 2025, the top five long-haul markets were Russia (1,898,837, +8.80%), the United Kingdom (1,083,162, +12.14%), the United States (1,081,929, +4.97%), Germany (965,898, +10.60%), and France (816,935, +13.34%).
A notable emerging market was Poland, with 237,570 visitors (+31.46%), supported by direct flights to Thailand.
“Long-haul markets in 2025 ended the season strongly. They have strong potential, and Thailand remains a popular destination,” she said, noting that the rise in long-haul arrivals helped boost tourism revenue in some regions, as certain short-haul markets experienced fewer visitors.
