Phuket recovery relying on Indian flights

Direct flights from India and Australia are helping to sustain Phuket's tourism industry during low season, but a full recovery might not be seen this year as the major Chinese and Russian markets are unable to resume overseas travel, says Thaneth Tantipiriyakij, president of the Phuket Tourist Association. Thaneth said the number of international direct flights to the island was currently 20-30 per day on average, mainly from India, which is accounting for more than 47 flights per week. This has turned India into Phuket's No.1 source of tourists. Phuket tourism operators held roadshows in three Indian cities -- New Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore -- between Aug 1-6 with the support of the Phuket Provincial Administrative Organization, in an attempt to capitalise on growing demand from this market. The number of guests on the island from markets that typically visit during low season, such as Australia, had also improved, buoyed by a resumption in flights from Sydney and Melbourne operated by Thai Airways International and Jetstar Airways. Meanwhile, the island also hopes to see rising traffic from South Korea, with more direct flights from Seoul to Phuket resuming since last month.<br/>