Suche
Mein Konto
United Airlines celebrates return to Thailand: direct flights after 11 years!
United Airlines has resumed direct flights from Los Angeles to Bangkok after more than 11 years in a bid to boost tourism between the US and Thailand.
United Airlines celebrates return to Thailand: direct flights after 11 years!
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) formally welcomed the first United Airlines flight UA820 on the Los Angeles-Bangkok direct route on October 26, 2025. This is the first return of a U.S. airline to Thailand in over 11 years, and it's making travelers' hearts beat faster. At Suvarnabhumi Airport, the flight was welcomed with a traditional water salute, while US Ambassador to Thailand Robert F. Godec and TAT Governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool were present to celebrate this important moment. The Investor reports that this flight had 257 passengers on board and traveled via Hong Kong to Bangkok.
The return of United Airlines further strengthens TAT's “Airline Focus” strategy, which aims to revitalize Thai tourism through expanded international flight connections. From January to October 2025, more than 808,000 Americans have already visited Thailand, representing a 5% increase compared to the previous year. TAT expects a total of 1.09 million US tourists to arrive in Thailand by the end of the year, generating an estimated 62 billion baht in revenue. TAT News highlights that the US market represents a strong long-haul segment for Thailand, supported by high purchasing power and keen interest in cultural and leisure travel.
The meaning of the new connection
The new connection is not only important for travelers, but also elevates Bangkok's position as a major hub for long-haul travel. The daily flights are operated on a Boeing 787 Dreamliner, which offers space in Polaris Business Class as well as in Premium Plus and Economy Class. Thailand blog highlights that American tourists tend to stay longer and spend more, which benefits the Thai economy.
Arrivals from the US are being further stimulated by increased interest in Thailand, including the filming of The White Lotus Season 3. This shows how closely the entertainment industry is linked to tourism and how it helps to stimulate interest in our beautiful country. The reopening of direct flights also represents a significant step in the friendship between Thailand and the US and could lead to additional routes in the future. So it remains exciting to see how the market will develop.
In summary, United Airlines' return to Thailand is a welcome occasion that is expected to strengthen both tourism and bilateral relations between the two countries. TAT is optimistic about the future and is working to position Thailand as a safe and welcoming destination for all travelers.