Beloved flight route to Asia is coming back to Auckland

Tuesday, 3 February 2026

Travellers will once again be able to fly non-stop between Auckland and Bangkok, with Thai Airways confirming plans to resume daily services in the second half of 2026.

The route restores a long-standing link between Aotearoa and Southeast Asia.

Thai Airways served Auckland for more than 30 years before the Covid-19 pandemic forced the suspension of flights in March 2020.

Since then, travellers have relied on one-stop options via Australia or other Asian cities.

Auckland Airport chief executive Carrie Hurihanganui called the airline’s return an “important milestone” in rebuilding long-haul travel.

“Thailand continues to be one of Kiwi travellers’ most loved destinations,” she said.

The service will connect into Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport, one of Asia’s largest aviation hubs, offering onward links across the region and into Europe.

Thai Airways chief commercial officer Kittiphong Sansomboon said the route is a key part of the airline’s long-haul expansion and will boost Bangkok’s status as a regional gateway.

Tourism New Zealand data show the number of Kiwis visiting Thailand has already bounced back to near pre-pandemic levels, with 48,000 visits recorded in the year ending November 2025.

Thai arrivals to New Zealand hit 20,000 over the same period.

Flight Centre general manager Heidi Walker said Thailand was one destination where travellers were seeking authentic experiences, on-the-ground value, hidden beaches, jungle escapes and small towns instead of the usual tourist hubs.

Tourism New Zealand CEO René de Monchy said the new service would also help grow traffic from connecting markets like India and the UK, with Bangkok as a transit hub.

The direct flight is expected to generate more than $250 million a year in New Zealand visitor spending, according to Auckland Airport.

Thai Airways is yet to confirm the exact launch date, aircraft type or booking details.