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British Airways To Resume Flight Services to Bangkok in October

British Airways has announced that it will resume flights to Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur later this year, marking the first time in four years that the airline has reinstated these services, which were halted during the pandemic.

Bangkok will be the first destination to see the return of BA flights, with three weekly departures from Gatwick starting in October.

This service will run continuously from winter into the summer season, concluding on April 27.

The airline aims to capitalize on travelers seeking affordable winter sun escapes during the chilly months in the UK.

This goal may have received a boost recently when Thailand made it easier for Britons to visit, announcing changes last month.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand has adjusted its entry regulations, now permitting travelers from the UK and 92 other nations to stay for 60 days without a visa.

Tourism plays a critical role in Thailand’s economy, which is still trying to rebound from the pandemic’s impact.

In the first half of 2024, Thailand welcomed 17.5 million international visitors, a 35% increase from the previous year.

Yet, these figures are still below the pre-pandemic annual visits, which could reach up to 40 million.

The revenue generated from tourism during this period was approximately 858 billion Thai baht (£18.3 billion), which is less than a quarter of the anticipated tourism earnings.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand is optimistic that the new visa exemptions, effective from July 15, will elevate these figures and rejuvenate the economy. The reinstated BA flights are expected to contribute to this growth.

The airline announced, “We’re resuming flights to Bangkok, one of Southeast Asia’s most frequented cities. From October 2024, you’ll be able to fly with us from London Gatwick to Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport.”

In another development in Southeast Asia, BA is reintroducing flights to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia’s capital. These flights will begin on November 10 from London Heathrow and will run daily.

Unlike the Bangkok route, the Kuala Lumpur flights will operate throughout the year without a summer break.

BA commented, “From November 2024, we’ll be flying daily to Kuala Lumpur from London Heathrow.”

“Kuala Lumpur’s head-turning skyline offers the best of both old and new, with skyscrapers, minarets, and Mughal-style domes making up the architecture of the city.”

“Begin your journey at the iconic Petronas Twin Towers. Then take a tour of Little India and Chinatown, neighborhoods filled with busy markets and delicious street food.”