Akasa Air, India’s fast-growing low-cost carrier, has announced the launch of daily direct flights between Mumbai and Phuket, commencing September 20, 2025—a strategic addition to its expanding international network.
This milestone marks the airline’s sixth international destination, reinforcing its aggressive push into Southeast Asia—one of the top outbound regions for Indian travelers.
Strategic Expansion and Network Enhancements
- Route Details & Schedule:
The service will operate daily using Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft. Flight QP618 will depart Mumbai at 07:40 AM, arriving in Phuket at 2:35 PM. The return flight, QP619, takes off at 3:35 PM from Phuket and lands in Mumbai around 7:15 PM IST - Purpose and Destinations:
With Phuket added to its roster—which currently includes Doha, Jeddah, Riyadh, Abu Dhabi, and Kuwait City—Akasa Air aims to craft a seamless, value-driven network connecting India with strategic overseas hubs
Tourism and Trade Synergies
- Convenience and Demand: Phuket, a favored destination among Indian travelers, is now more accessible thanks to these direct flights. The schedule suits both leisure tourists and professionals, offering morning and evening departure flexibility
- Economic & Cultural Bridges: This move signals more than just expanded connectivity—it’s a deliberate effort to deepen economic and cultural exchanges. Increased tourist footfall is likely to benefit Phuket’s hospitality, retail, and services sectors. Meanwhile, Indian businesses gain enhanced access to Southeast Asia’s vibrant tourism corridor
Competitive Landscape & Bilateral Progress
- New Competition & Improved Access:
Akasa Air’s entry into the India–Phuket market sets the stage for intensified competition alongside existing operators like IndiGo and Thai VietJet. By offering direct services, Akasa aims to attract travelers who prioritize speed and affordability - Enabling Agreements:
The recent bilateral air services agreement between India and Thailand has paved the way for more capacity and route flexibility, enabling carriers like Akasa to launch new international services such as the Phuket route
Akasa Air’s Broader Expansion Strategy
Akasa’s bold push into Southeast Asia reflects its larger ambition: establishing Navi Mumbai and Noida as strategic operational hubs. It also joins hands with Adani Airport Holdings to operate from the upcoming Navi Mumbai airport, with plans to scale up both domestic and international flights over the coming year.
Read more airline news, follow Global Travel Wire.
Disclaimer: This image is AI generated and may bear no resemblance with actual fact or images.
