Qatar Airways launches new non-stop flights to Thailand’s Pattaya

Qatar Airways has been aggressively expanding its services to different parts of the world in recent times.

Qatar Airways’ first direct non-stop flight to the holiday destination of Pattaya touched down at U-Tapao Rayong Pattaya International Airport, marking the inauguration of the airline’s newest Thai destination, reported Gulf Times.

Pattaya is Qatar Airways’ fifth route to the Southeast Asian country and the first new route launch for the carrier in 2018.

Flight QR828 touched down just after 6:30am local time and was welcomed with a traditional water cannon salute, according to The Peninsula.

Soonthorn Chaiyindeepum, the Thai Ambassador to Qatar, travelled on board the inaugural flight with Qatar Airways Senior Vice President Asia Pacific, Marwan Koleilat.

“We’re delighted to be the first Middle East airline to offer direct flights to Pattaya. Having also launched flights to Chiang Mai in Thailand last month and soon to launch our sixth-daily flight to Bangkok, this new route reinforces and deepens the strong ties that exist between Qatar and Thailand,” Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Akbar Al Baker was quoted as saying by Qatar Tribune.

“Thailand is continuing to grow in popularity among our passengers. We launched this new route in direct response to increasing demand from our passengers, and we’re proud to be able to fly them on our aircraft to experience our unrivalled five-star service,” he added.

The new four-times-a-week service to Pattaya increases Qatar Airways’ total weekly frequency to 64 flights a week to Thailand. 

Pattaya is a major resort city located on Thailand’s eastern Gulf coast and a popular holiday destination for local and foreign travellers who want to experience the local Thai hospitality and culture.

Pattaya’s main attractions include long and stunning beaches, running parallel to the city centre, the Sanctuary of Truth traditional wooden temple, a floating market and extensive shopping areas.