🗓️ Thursday, December 18th, 2026
📍 Thailand

Thailand Hits a Major Tourism Milestone as Long-Haul Visitors Top 10 Million

Thailand has reached a historic tourism milestone, welcoming more than 10 million long-haul travellers for the first time. The moment was symbolically marked on December 17 when a Thai Airways flight from London landed in Bangkok, celebrating the country’s growing appeal to visitors from Europe, the Americas, the Middle East and Africa.

UK Leads Europe in Travel to Thailand

The United Kingdom became the first European market to send over 1 million tourists to Thailand this year. Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool and partner agencies welcomed arriving passengers at Suvarnabhumi Airport, highlighting the UK’s key role in driving long-haul tourism growth.

Long-Haul Travellers Power High-Quality Tourism

Long-haul visitors now account for around 33% of all international arrivals, with Thailand expecting up to 32.8 million visitors in total by the end of the year. These travellers typically stay longer and spend more per trip, aligning perfectly with TAT’s strategy to attract high-value, sustainable tourism.

Lucky Passengers Celebrate with Luxury Travel Prizes

To mark the occasion, two fortunate travellers received Thai Airways return flights on the London–Bangkok route, along with luxury stays at Anantara Chiang Mai and Avani+ Khao Lak. The prize package also included spa and dining experiences sponsored by PANPURI Wellness and Sala Lakorn.

More Direct Flights Drive Record Growth

TAT credited the achievement to its airline-focused strategy, which prioritises more direct routes and increased flight frequency. Long-haul flight volume to Thailand rose by 12.8% this year, far exceeding the global average of 1.6%. New and returning routes include United Airlines’ Los Angeles–Bangkok service, Air France’s Paris–Phuket flights, Norse Atlantic Airways’ new routes from multiple European cities, and the return of Arkia Airlines’ Tel Aviv–Bangkok service.

New UK Campaigns Set to Keep Momentum Going

Looking ahead, TAT plans to launch new promotional campaigns in early 2026 with more than 10 UK travel brands, including Trailfinders, Kuoni and Healing Holidays, ensuring Thailand remains a top long-haul destination for years to come.