Belavia Launches Direct Flights Connecting Minsk to Thailand's Pattaya and Phuket

New Direct Air Links Established

Belavia Belarusian Airlines has officially launched direct flight services from Minsk to two prominent Thai destinations: Pattaya and Phuket. The inaugural flight to Pattaya's U-Tapao Rayong–Pattaya International Airport took off on January 9, 2026, followed by the first flight to Phuket on January 12, 2026. This strategic move is set to significantly strengthen travel ties and boost tourism between Belarus and Thailand.

Enhanced Connectivity and Tourism Growth

The introduction of these direct routes marks a pivotal development for both nations, providing a more convenient and efficient travel option for passengers. Previously, travelers from Belarus to Thailand often had to endure connecting flights, typically through hubs in Russia or Dubai.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has actively welcomed these new services, recognizing their potential to attract high-value European tourists. Ms. Suladda Sarutilavan, Director of the TAT Europe Region, emphasized that direct connectivity to key beach resorts is crucial for maintaining Thailand's global competitiveness as a preferred leisure destination for quality long-stay travelers.

Data indicates a growing interest from Belarusian tourists in Thailand. By the end of 2025, Belarusian tourist arrivals to Thailand reached 32,179, marking a 56.48% increase from the previous year. With the launch of direct air services, an increase of at least 30-40% in tourist flow is anticipated.

Flight Details and Future Plans

The new flights are operated using an Airbus A330-200 aircraft, which has a capacity of 281 seats. Initially, these services will run as charter flights, with a frequency of approximately every 10 to 11 days. The estimated flight duration is around 10 hours for outbound journeys and 11 hours for inbound flights. Belavia plans to transition these routes to scheduled services in the summer, further solidifying the long-term connectivity.

Officials present at the welcoming ceremonies included H.E. Mr. Uladzimir Baravikou, Ambassador of the Republic of Belarus to Thailand, and Ms. Suladda Sarutilavan. Ivan Chura, the Honorary Consul of the Kingdom of Thailand in the Republic of Belarus, and Kanchana Sing-udom, Director of the TAT Moscow Office, have also highlighted the significance of these new routes. For the convenience of travelers, Thailand has implemented e-visas and offers visa-on-arrival options, with discussions underway for a potential visa-free regime.