Air India Express has revealed plans to begin direct weekly air services between Varanasi and Bangkok starting February 1, 2026, further improving international air links between Uttar Pradesh and Thailand. With this addition, Varanasi will become the airline’s fifth Indian destination offering direct connectivity to Bangkok, joining Bengaluru, Lucknow, Pune, and Surat.

The newly introduced non-stop route aims to provide more convenient travel options for passengers from eastern Uttar Pradesh heading to Thailand, while also encouraging inbound tourism to Varanasi, Sarnath, and other prominent locations along the Buddhist pilgrimage circuit. Tickets for the service are now available through the airline’s official website, mobile application, and authorised travel booking platforms.

This route strengthens Air India Express’ expanding presence in Thailand. At present, the airline operates direct services between Bangkok and cities such as Bengaluru, Lucknow, Pune, and Surat, along with non-stop flights connecting Hyderabad and Phuket.

The launch also marks a significant expansion of Air India Express’ operations from Varanasi, where the carrier currently runs over 70 flights each week to destinations including Bengaluru, Delhi, Mumbai, and Sharjah. Notably, the airline was the first to introduce international flights from Varanasi, beginning direct operations to Sharjah in August 2015. Across Uttar Pradesh, Air India Express also serves Ayodhya, Hindon, and Lucknow.

Commenting on the development, Air India Express Managing Director Aloke Singh said the new direct flight to Bangkok would offer passengers easier access to one of India’s most popular overseas destinations. He noted that the move supports the airline’s strategy of boosting international connectivity from fast-growing Tier-II and non-metro cities across the country.

Singh further stated that the service would enhance accessibility to Varanasi for international travellers, describing the city as one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited urban centres and a major spiritual hub of India. He added that the connection would also contribute to the growth of the Buddhist tourism circuit for visitors from Thailand. According to him, the new route reflects the airline’s commitment to building meaningful connections that deliver greater convenience and value to passengers.

Flight schedule (effective February 1, 2026)