Jetstar to launch first direct Brisbane flights to Bangkok since pandemic

Brisbane has secured direct flights to a beloved tourism icon, with a massive sales frenzy to celebrate the launch.

Brisbane has secured direct flights to the Asian metropolis of Bangkok in another sign of international tourism’s renaissance.

Jetstar will on Friday announce the launch of the new route, which has not been flown by any airline since the start of the coronavirus pandemic, with a sales blitz featuring one-way fares for as low as $205.

Jetstar’s Bangkok flights, which will take off from December 13, will lift the number of international destinations out of Brisbane Airport to 32 – just one less than the pre-Covid figure of 33.

The Temple of the Emerald Buddha and Grand Palace in Bangkok. Picture: iStock

The flight deal, bartered as part of the State government’s $200 million Attracting Aviation war chest, is expected to generate $116 million in overnight visitor expenditure for Queensland over the next three years, bringing an extra 190,000 inbound seats to Brisbane on-board a 335-seat Dreamliner aircraft scheduled to make three return flights each week.

But it is also an exciting development for intrepid Queenslanders looking for an exotic holiday destination overseas.

Bangkok is just a short connecting flight from some of Thailand’s best-loved tourist destinations including Phuket and Koh Samui.

Koh Phi Phi near Phuket is one of the world’s most beautiful tourist destinations.

Queensland Tourism Minister Michael Healy said it was “terrific” to see Jetstar take flight between Bangkok and Brisbane for the first time.

“Compared to pre-Covid figures, we have recently seen record numbers of visitors from Thailand to Queensland, so it was vital for us to open up a direct route to Bangkok,” he said.

“Being a low-cost carrier, Jetstar will help make travel to Brisbane more affordable for international students and passengers travelling from across Asia, the UK, and Europe, using Bangkok as a hub.

Peranya Visitchantaragoon and Atitaya Sittiwong celebrate the launch of Jetstar flights to Bangkok at Brisbane International Airport. Picture: Steve Pohlner

Air freight from Brisbane to Thailand hit a record $46.5 million last year so the outbound flights will also be a valuable portal for Queensland exporters.

Jetstar Group CEO Steph Tully said it had never been easier or more affordable to get to Bangkok from Brisbane.

“We expect this new route to be incredibly popular,” he said.

“This is our 20th Brisbane route in what is Jetstar’s 20th year of flying and we’re focused on delivering for our customers with more new routes and new aircraft on the way.”

A traditional long tail boat on the way to famous Maya Bay beach at Koh Phi Phi. Picture: iStock

Brisbane Airport CEO Gert-Jan de Graaff said it was satisfying to be able to bring back links to one of the region’s most popular destinations.

“We are delighted to be reconnecting two long-time friends, Queensland and Thailand,” he said.

“This route has been the most frequently requested in comments on Brisbane Airport’s social media accounts over the past two years.

“A direct flight makes it easier for families and friends to connect and provides great opportunities for Queensland exporters with up to 15 tonnes of freight capacity on every service.”

Bangkok is known for its rich Buddhist culture and is a favourite shopping destination for western tourists at its upscale malls and rustic markets.

Jetstar will run a 24-hour sales frenzy with fares starting at $205 one-way.

Thailand’s tourism industry is set for a popularity boom with the country used as the setting for the new series of the White Lotus black comedy show about a fictional resort chain.

Patong Beach in Phuket, Thailand. Picture: Lauren DeCicca (Getty Images)