Air India Express Launches Bengaluru-Phuket Service

Air India Express has begun direct service between Bengaluru and Phuket, with the first flight taking off today. The new route opens up travel opportunities to Thailand's celebrated destination, known for its tropical beaches, entertainment options, shopping districts, and cultural attractions.

The airline has structured the service across three frequency patterns. On Mondays and Saturdays, flights depart Bengaluru at 10:35, arriving in Phuket at 15:50 local time, with return flights leaving at 16:45 and touching down at 18:55. Friday services operate on a slightly later schedule, departing at 11:25 and arriving at 16:40, with the return leg at 17:40 reaching Bengaluru at 19:50. Sunday flights follow a similar pattern to Friday, with departures at 11:15 and arrivals at 16:30, returning at 17:30 to land at 19:40.

The Phuket connection strengthens Air India Express's presence in Thailand, building on its Bengaluru-Bangkok route that commenced in October 2025. The airline currently operates approximately 500 flights weekly from Bengaluru, serving 31 domestic destinations and 8 international locations.

The expansion reflects Air India Express's strategic push to enhance international access from major Indian cities to leisure-oriented markets across Southeast Asia and the Middle East. Recently, the airline received recognition for these efforts, winning the 'Airline of the Year' award in both domestic and international categories at Bengaluru Airport's Pinnacle Awards. It also secured the Domestic Connectivity Award at Wings India 2026, an event organised by the Ministry of Civil Aviation in partnership with the Airports Authority of India and FICCI, acknowledging its contribution to expanding air travel accessibility throughout the country.

The airline's current promotional campaign, 'Xpress Wali Baat Hai', features actor Pankaj Tripathi and emphasises Air India Express's service offerings—spacious seating arrangements, 'Gourmair' meal services, Indian-style hospitality, and an expanding route network connecting Indian cities with international destinations.