BANGKOK, Thailand – The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) welcomed the inaugural scheduled flight of Belavia Belarusian Airlines from Minsk to Bangkok on October 25, 2026, which strengthens direct air connectivity between Thailand and Belarus. TAT Executive Director for Europe Suladda Sarutilawan has joined the ceremony to welcome Belavia flight B2 799, which arrived at Suvarnabhumi Airport at 5:05 p.m.
The new service supports TAT’s Airline Focus strategy, which aims to expand air connectivity and seat capacity from long-haul markets, particularly Eastern Europe. The Executive Director said the route would make travel more convenient during Thailand’s high tourism season, encourage longer stays, and help distribute tourism revenue nationwide. Belavia, Belarus’s national carrier, operates the Minsk–Bangkok route every Sunday with a 281-seat Airbus A330-200. The flight departs Minsk at 3:10 a.m., arrives in Bangkok at 5:05 p.m., and the return flight departs at 7:05 p.m.
The airline previously operated charter flights to U-Tapao and Phuket in January 2026. Meanwhile, the scheduled services between Minsk and Phuket will begin on October 29, operating twice weekly and offering approximately 2,248 passenger seats per month. Thailand welcomed 32,179 Belarusian visitors in 2025, an increase of 56.48% from 2024. From January 1 to October 24, 2026, arrivals reached 23,769, up 1.25% year-on-year. Popular destinations include Bangkok, Phuket, and Pattaya, with visitors showing interest in wellness, sports, and soft-adventure activities. TAT forecasts 30,000 to 35,000 Belarusian visitors in 2026, supported by improved air connectivity and increased travel opportunities. (NNT)
