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Norse Atlantic Airways is set to enhance its offerings significantly for the Winter 2026/27 season, launching a new service connecting London Gatwick to Phuket alongside increased flight frequencies to both Bangkok and Phuket from the UK, Norway, and Sweden. This strategic move aims to cater to the growing demand for long-haul leisure travel to Thailand, a destination that remains immensely popular among European travelers during the winter months.
This much-anticipated expansion comes as the airline resumes operations following the return of a Boeing 787-9 aircraft, which enhances operational capacity on one of the most dynamic long-haul routes connecting Europe to Southeast Asia.
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Thailand consistently ranks as one of Europe’s top winter destinations due to its appealing holiday prices, inviting climate, and continuously improving tourism infrastructure. The latest schedule includes a new service with three weekly flights from London Gatwick to Phuket, as well as enhanced offerings on existing routes from Manchester and Scandinavian cities.
This boost in service comes at a time when Thailand’s tourism sector is showing a robust recovery, with European travelers being key contributors. As the winter season approaches, this expansion promises to provide greater flight availability, enhanced travel flexibility, and added competition on routes connecting Northern Europe and Southeast Asia. The additional flights not only benefit travelers but also bolster tourism flows, supporting increased airport traffic and strengthening bilateral travel ties.
| Route | Previous Operation | Winter 2026/27 Operation |
|---|---|---|
| London Gatwick – Phuket | No scheduled service | New three weekly flights |
| London Gatwick – Bangkok | Existing service | Continues throughout winter |
| Manchester – Bangkok | Lower frequency | Four weekly flights from December 2026 |
| Oslo – Bangkok | Lower frequency | Up to five weekly flights |
| Oslo – Phuket | Lower frequency | Up to two weekly flights |
| Stockholm Arlanda – Bangkok | Lower frequency | Up to five weekly flights |
| Stockholm Arlanda – Phuket | Lower frequency | Up to two weekly flights |
This expansion ensures that Thailand becomes one of the airline’s largest seasonal markets outside North America, catering to the growing demand from travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation.
The introduction of the London Gatwick–Phuket service reflects a significant change in travel dynamics. Traditionally, most travelers would connect through Bangkok when heading to Phuket. With direct flights now available, travelers can expect shorter journey times and increased flexibility in scheduling.
The advantages of direct access to Phuket include:
This new route particularly appeals to package holiday operators, families, and honeymooners looking for easy access to the beautiful beaches of Thailand’s Andaman coast.
In addition to London, Manchester has been allocated four weekly flights to Bangkok, highlighting the growing demand outside the capital. This marks a significant enhancement for travelers from Northern England, who now enjoy more options than ever.
In Scandinavia, further capacity increases are planned with more flights to Bangkok and Phuket from Oslo and Stockholm. This reflects Thailand’s enduring popularity among Scandinavian travelers who consistently rank among the top visitors to the country.
This expansion positions Thailand as a vital player in the long-haul aviation market, showcasing a rebounding tourism sector. The Ministry of Tourism and Sports of Thailand reports continued growth in international visitor numbers as airlines restore capacities and improve access. European travelers significantly contribute to hotel occupancy rates, aviation demand, and local businesses, thus enhancing economic growth.
The strategic expansion by Norse Atlantic Airways aligns with a broader trend of increased long-haul travel to Thailand. With improved connectivity, travelers now have better options for planning their winter vacations in this tropical haven. As travelers prepare for their winter getaways, they can look forward to a more accessible and enjoyable journey to Thailand as new routes and frequencies enhance travel possibilities.
With growing confidence in international travel and the attractiveness of Thailand’s offerings, the upcoming winter season promises to be an exciting time for travelers seeking sun, culture, and unique experiences in one of Asia’s premier destinations.
Source: The post United Kingdom Joins Norway, Sweden and Thailand as Norse Atlantic Airways Unveils New London Gatwick to Phuket Service While Expanding Bangkok Flights Across Northern Europe for Winter 2026-27—What Travellers Should Plan Before Booking first appeared on www.travelandtourworld.com.
