# TAT celebrates the launch of Virgin Atlantic’s inaugural flight from London Heathrow to Phuket

- Link: https://www.thailand-business-news.com/tourism/335671-tat-celebrates-the-launch-of-virgin-atlantics-inaugural-flight-from-london-heathrow-to-phuket
- Published: 2026-10-22T01:45:00+07:00
- Author: Tourism Authority of Thailand

**Virgin Atlantic’s inaugural London Heathrow–Phuket flight launches thrice-weekly
for winter 2026–2027, boosting UK access. A marketing campaign yielded 9,079 bookings,
promoting longer stays and increased visitor spending in southern Thailand.**

### Virgin Atlantic’s New Flight Route to Phuket

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) recently celebrated the launch of Virgin
Atlantic’s inaugural flight from London Heathrow to Phuket. This marks the beginning
of a new travel route with three weekly services set for the winter season of 2026–
2027. The initiative is part of a collaboration that includes a comprehensive marketing
campaign, aimed at elevating tourism between the UK and southern Thailand.

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### Driving Tourism and Travel Trade

As part of the route’s launch, a joint marketing strategy has successfully generated
an impressive 9,079 bookings. This effort not only enhances accessibility for UK
travelers to reach Phuket but also boosts the overall tourism economy in the region.
The campaign is strategically designed to encourage longer visitor stays, increase
spending, and facilitate the exploration of other neighboring destinations within
southern Thailand.

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### Promoting Regional Exploration

This new air connection is a significant milestone for TAT’s objectives, promoting
engagement within the travel trade sector. By introducing more direct travel options,
the partnership hopes to inspire tourists to delve deeper into the rich cultural
and natural landscapes that southern Thailand offers. More details about this initiative
can be found on the TAT Newsroom website, highlighting its importance and strategic
goals.

**Source** : [TAT welcomes Virgin Atlantic inaugural London Heathrow–Phuket flight](https://www.tatnews.org/2026/10/tat-welcomes-virgin-atlantic-inaugural-london-heathrow-phuket-flight/?rand=55352)