MUMBAI– Akasa Air (QP) will expand its international network with daily non-stop flights between Mumbai (BOM) and Phuket (HKT) starting September 20, 2025. This marks the airline’s first entry into Southeast Asia and its sixth international destination.
Phuket will become Akasa Air’s 29th overall destination. The route aims to meet rising demand for direct air travel between India and Thailand while boosting tourism, business travel, and trade links.
Photo: BFI Watch ca350Akasa Air Mumbai to Phuket Flight
Flights from Mumbai will depart at 07:45 and arrive in Phuket at 14:35 local time. The return service will depart Phuket at 15:35 and land in Mumbai at 19:15.
Both flights will operate daily, providing a consistent schedule for leisure and corporate travelers.
The new connection is expected to strengthen bilateral ties by offering a direct, time-efficient alternative to one-stop itineraries currently used by many travelers.
Akasa Air has positioned the launch as part of its strategy to tap into India’s fast-growing outbound travel market, which is seeing increased interest in short-haul international leisure destinations.
Photo: Siddh Dhuri | MumbaiPlanesAkasa Air’s Growth Milestone
Founded in 2022, Akasa Air recently celebrated its third anniversary on August 7, 2025. In that time, the airline has carried over 19 million passengers and grown its fleet to 30 aircraft.
Its network now includes 23 domestic cities and six international destinations—Doha (DOH), Jeddah (JED), Riyadh (RUH), Abu Dhabi (AUH), Kuwait City (KWI), and soon, Phuket (HKT).
By adding Phuket, Akasa Air expands its footprint in the Gulf and Southeast Asia, positioning itself as a competitive player in India’s mid-haul international segment. The new service aligns with the carrier’s broader vision of connecting high-demand leisure and business hubs within a five-hour flight radius.
Demand-Driven Network Strategy
The airline cited growing two-way travel between India and Thailand as a primary factor for the new route. Indian outbound tourism to Phuket has risen steadily, supported by visa facilitation measures and strong cultural ties.
Meanwhile, Thailand continues to attract business delegations, MICE events, and trade-related travel from Mumbai’s commercial sector.
Praveen Iyer, Co-Founder and Chief Commercial Officer, said the route supports both “the aspirations of modern Indian travelers” and “the cultural and economic bridges between India and Thailand.”
Photo: NeedpixPhuket: Tourist Hub of Asia
Phuket International Airport (HKT) serves as the main gateway to Thailand’s largest island, attracting millions of travelers each year. Known globally for its beaches, Phuket blends tropical scenery, cultural heritage, and diverse activities, making it one of Southeast Asia’s most popular holiday destinations.
Thai Airways (TG) and other major carriers connect Phuket (HKT) to regional and international hubs, offering easy access for both short getaways and extended vacations. From quiet coves and national parks to vibrant markets and nightlife, the island caters to all kinds of travelers.
The Big Buddha, Phuket; Photo- Subhrajyoti07; Wikimedia CommonsExploring Phuket Beyond the Beaches
Phuket covers roughly 50 km by 20 km and is divided into distinct areas, each offering unique attractions. While many visitors stay within a single beach district, venturing further reveals rainforests, temples, historic streets, and nearby islands worth exploring.
North Phuket
Khao Phra Thaeo National Park
Home to the island’s last remaining evergreen rainforest, this protected area spans around 20 km². Hiking trails lead to waterfalls and wildlife viewing points, with the most popular route being the Bang Pae Waterfall trail. The shaded paths offer a break from the heat, though conditions can be challenging in midday sun.
Bang Pae Waterfall
Within the national park lies Phuket’s most famous waterfall. Visitors can skip the hike and head straight to the falls for a swim in the cool, clear pools.
Phuket Elephant Sanctuary
Covering 30 acres, this sanctuary rescues elderly and disabled elephants from logging and performance industries. Visitors can observe and feed elephants but are not permitted to ride or touch them, supporting ethical tourism practices.
Central Phuket
Phuket Old Town
This compact historic district is known for its pastel-colored Sino-Portuguese buildings, street art, and museums. Soi Romanee offers a particularly photogenic stroll, and the Phuket Thaihua Museum provides insight into the island’s multicultural history.
Wat Chalong
Phuket’s most revered temple complex honors two monks who played key roles during the 1876 Chinese rebellion. Multiple ornate structures fill the grounds, and visitors must follow dress codes by covering their shoulders and knees.
Island-Hopping Day Trips
Phuket is a launch point for exploring Phang Nga Bay, the Phi Phi Islands, and other nearby destinations. Popular tours include stops at James Bond Island and smaller, less-crowded islets.
Culinary Highlights
Blue Elephant, set in a colonial mansion, offers refined Thai cuisine, while street food stalls serve favorites like banana Thai roti. Food tours in central Phuket introduce travelers to both traditional and modern flavors.
South & West Phuket
Big Buddha
Perched atop Nakkerd Hill, the 45-meter statue offers panoramic island views. The ascent passes tourist stalls and elephant riding stations, but the summit rewards visitors with peaceful surroundings and religious significance.
Beaches
Kata, Karon, and Freedom Beach are the most visited in the west. For fewer crowds, Banana Beach and Naiyang Beach provide quieter alternatives.
Spas and Massages
Luxury spas like Infinite Luxury Spa at Kata Rocks, as well as smaller seaside huts, offer traditional Thai massages and wellness treatments.
Nightlife
Patong’s Bangla Road is Phuket’s nightlife hub, filled with bars, clubs, and live entertainment venues.
Accommodation Options in Phuket
Phuket offers lodging from budget hostels to luxury resorts. Prices are generally lower than in Western destinations, making high-end stays more accessible.
Como Point Yamu
Located in the north, this resort provides convenient access to national parks and wildlife sanctuaries.
Six Senses Yao Noi
Situated in Phang Nga Bay, this property offers private villas and direct access to island-hopping tours.
Tourists Visiting the Metal Castle in Bangkok, Thailand; Photo- PexelsBangkok: Most Visited City in Asia in 2025
Bangkok has been named Asia’s most visited city for 2025 by Agoda, a global travel platform, according to Thai Government Deputy Spokesperson Sasikarn Watthanachan.
Four other Thai destinations – Phuket (HKT), Pattaya (UTP), Chiang Mai (CNX), and Hat Yai (HDY) – also ranked among the region’s top cities for repeat visits, highlighting the country’s tourism diversity and consistent appeal to international travellers.
Bangkok’s ranking reflects its combination of vibrant urban life, acclaimed street food, world-class cultural landmarks such as the Grand Palace and Wat Arun, and efficient transportation links. The city also maintains a Level 1 “Exercise Normal Precautions” safety rating from the United States Department of State, the highest category in its June 9, 2025, Travel Advisory.
This recognition aligns with Thailand’s ongoing efforts to promote itself as a safe, welcoming, and culturally rich destination. Visitors are drawn not only to Bangkok’s energy but also to the contrasting charms of its beach resorts, heritage towns, and regional cultural hubs.
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Akasa Air Top 10 Busiest Domestic Routes in 2025
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