Vietnam Airlines has inaugurated its first direct flight from Ho Chi Minh City to Phuket, marking a significant milestone in the partnership with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT). The launch, which took place on 2 July, is part of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed on 28 May 2026, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Thailand and Viet Nam.

The inaugural flight, VN621, operated by an Airbus A321, departed Tan Son Nhat International Airport at 16.00 and arrived at Phuket International Airport at 17.50 local time, carrying 152 passengers. The flight was celebrated with a water cannon salute, and passengers were welcomed with floral garlands and commemorative gifts. TAT Deputy Governor for International Marketing – Asia and South Pacific, Pattaraanong Na Chiangmai, led the welcoming ceremony alongside representatives from Vietnam Airlines and Phuket International Airport.

This new service, operating four times a week, aims to enhance tourism and business opportunities by providing direct access from southern Viet Nam to one of Thailand's premier resort destinations. "This inaugural flight shows how cooperation with Vietnam Airlines is converting air access into tangible travel opportunities," said Pattaraanong Na Chiangmai. The route is expected to support increased visitor demand from Viet Nam and strengthen ASEAN tourism links.

To further promote the route, TAT’s Ho Chi Minh City Office is organising a familiarisation trip from 7 to 11 July for Vietnamese travel agents and media representatives. This initiative aims to showcase Phuket's tourism offerings and foster business connections between Vietnamese and Thai travel companies. Additionally, the "Thai Lan – Càng Hiểu Càng Yêu" campaign is being promoted to highlight Thailand as a safe and value-led destination, targeting 689,000 Vietnamese arrivals in 2026

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