Saudia will commence flights to Phuket on 2nd December 2024, offering 12 weekly round trips from Riyadh and Jeddah combined. This expansion aligns with Saudia’s strategic objective to broaden its international flight network and bring the world to Saudi Arabia, using its young fleet of fuel-efficient and comfortable aircraft.
The airline says that the new route will cater to the growing demand for leisure travel, with Phuket famed for its rich traditions, from its vibrant markets to its peaceful, sun-soaked beaches. Operational preparations are currently underway at Phuket International Airport to ensure an exceptional service and seamless experience for all Saudia passengers.
The carrier will deploy its Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft on the routes which feature spacious cabins, comfortable seating, advanced inflight entertainment systems catering to diverse guest preferences, and other premium onboard services designed to enhance the travel experience.
For passengers in the UK, this new route represents an exciting opportunity to connect via Saudia’s hub in Jeddah or Riyadh and enjoy a smooth, world-class travel experience to Phuket. There is also the possibility of booking a stopover for between 1 and 4 nights in Saudi Arabia, enabling passengers to enjoy a visit the ancient kingdom that offers so much exotic promise.
Arved Von Zur Muhlen, Chief Commercial Officer at Saudia Group, said: "We are thrilled to open up this new direct route to Phuket, offering our guests even more choice and flexibility. Opening this new route to Phuket is an iconic destination, known for its stunning natural beauty and diverse attractions. The addition of this new route demonstrates Saudia’s vision to expand our global network and connect our guests to the places they want to visit. We look forward to welcoming guests to experience Saudia’s renowned hospitality, premium inflight services, and convenient connections."
Saudia continues to top the global list for on-time performance (OTP), achieving this milestone for the second time consecutively, according to a report by the independent aviation tracking site, Cirium, for July 2024.
The carrier also has a keen eye on the future and recently singed a massive deal with Lilium to acquire up to 100 eVTOL jets. These aircraft have unique vertical take-off and landing capabilities which will open up entirely new routes. Imagine travelling up to 175 kilometres at speeds of 250 kilometres per hour, saving valuable time compared to traditional options.
