TAT Welcomes Belavia’s Inaugural Direct Flights from Minsk to Pattaya and Phuket - Get updated on what's happening in tourism!

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has welcomed the inaugural direct flight by Belavia Belarusian Airlines from Minsk to Pattaya, marking a significant expansion of air connectivity between Belarus and Thailand. The first flight arrived at U-Tapao Rayong–Pattaya International Airport on 9 January at 12.00 hrs, with a second new route from Minsk to Phuket scheduled to commence on 12 January at 12.25 hrs.

Expanding long-haul access under TAT’s airline strategy

The dual-route launch aligns with TAT’s airline focus strategy, designed to extend Thailand’s reach into new, high-value European markets and strengthen long-haul connectivity. The initiative prioritises direct access to key leisure destinations, particularly beach resorts, to support Thailand’s competitiveness and appeal to quality long-stay travellers.

The welcome ceremony was attended by H.E. Mr. Uladzimir Baravikou, Ambassador of the Republic of Belarus to Thailand (with residence in Hanoi), and Ms. Suladda Sarutilavan, Director of the TAT Europe Region, alongside public and private-sector tourism partners.

Direct links to key leisure hubs

Ms. Suladda Sarutilavan noted that the launch of Belavia’s direct services expands Thailand’s long-haul network and opens new access from a European market with growing travel demand. She emphasised that direct connectivity to destinations such as Pattaya and Phuket is vital to sustaining Thailand’s global position as a preferred leisure destination, particularly for longer stays.

Belavia adds Asia capacity with Thailand services

Founded in 1996, Belavia operates flights to more than 50 destinations, primarily across Russia and Eastern Europe. The new routes mark a notable addition to the airline’s long-haul portfolio, complementing existing services to Sri Lanka and the Maldives. Until now, Belarusian travellers to Thailand typically relied on connecting flights via Russia or Dubai.

The Minsk–Pattaya and Minsk–Phuket routes are operated with a 281-seat Airbus A321-200. Services are launching initially as charter flights, with plans to introduce scheduled operations during the summer season.

Growing Belarusian market for Thailand

Belarusian visitors are considered an emerging long-stay segment, averaging around 10 days per visit. Demand is driven by established tour operators and strong interest in all-inclusive holidays, wellness tourism, sports and soft-adventure activities.

According to TAT, arrivals from Belarus to Thailand reached 32,179 visitors in 2025, representing a year-on-year increase of 56.48 percent. The new direct flights are expected to further stimulate demand and deepen Thailand’s presence in this growing European source market.

Image Credit: © TAT