Thai Airways sees stronger Bangladesh demand, plans Auckland return

Dhaka : Thai Airways International expects continued growth in the Bangladesh market as rising outbound travel and demand for regional and long-haul destinations strengthen the airline's position in South Asia, according to Shofi Ul Alam, Assistant General Manager of Sales for Thai Airways in Bangladesh.

The airline, which has served Bangladesh for more than six decades, is marking its 66th anniversary this year. Alam said Bangladesh remains a strategically important market, both for direct travel to Thailand and as a source of connecting passengers using Bangkok as a gateway to Asia, Europe and the South West Pacific.

Bangkok remains key gateway

Thai Airways has seen encouraging demand over the past year across both point-to-point and connecting markets. Leisure travel remains an important driver, while business, medical, education and visiting-friends-and-relatives traffic also contribute significantly.

Bangkok's role as a regional hub is particularly important to the airline's Bangladesh strategy. Through its Bangkok network, Thai Airways connects Bangladeshi travelers with destinations including Japan, China, Southeast Asia and Australia.

The airline also sees opportunities in the South West Pacific, particularly New Zealand. According to Alam, Thai Airways plans to resume flights to Auckland by March 2027, potentially adding another important destination for Bangladeshi travelers to its network.

New A321neo enters Bangladesh service

Thai Airways is also using newer aircraft and upgraded products to strengthen its appeal in Bangladesh.

The airline recently introduced its new Airbus A321neo on the Dhaka-Bangkok route. The aircraft features a Royal Silk Business Class cabin with lie-flat seats, alongside upgraded Economy Class facilities.

The A321neo is part of the carrier's broader transformation program, which combines its traditional Thai hospitality with newer aircraft, technology and onboard products.

Alam mentioned the airline's 2026 anniversary theme, "Our Heartware. New World.," reflects its effort to preserve its service culture while modernizing the passenger experience.

Shofi Ul Alam

Thai Airways has also introduced changes to its international baggage policy, moving to a Piece Concept system from March 2, 2026. Passengers can additionally purchase excess baggage in advance.

Competition, fares

The Bangladesh-Thailand market has become increasingly competitive, with Gulf and Asian carriers offering alternative routes to major international destinations.

Alam claimed Thai Airways' advantage lies in its direct Bangkok connectivity, extensive onward network, Thai hospitality and competitive fares. The airline has also received international recognition, ranking 10th among the world's best international airlines in Travel + Leisure's 2026 World's Best Awards.

Ticket prices, however, remain a major consideration for Bangladeshi travelers. Alam added fares are affected by factors including demand, seasonality, fuel prices, airport charges, taxes, currency movements and seat availability across fare classes.

The airline plans to continue monitoring market conditions while emphasizing overall value, including baggage allowances, onboard services and network connectivity.

Bangladesh seen as growing source market

Thailand remains a popular destination for Bangladeshi travelers, with beaches, shopping, cuisine, wellness, culture and family-oriented tourism among the attractions driving demand.

Alam expressed greater cooperation among airlines, tourism authorities, travel agencies and tour operators could further expand the market through joint promotions, packages and destination marketing.

He also identified Bangladesh's large population, expanding middle class and growing interest in international travel as factors supporting long-term potential.

Infrastructure remains priority

While optimistic about the market, Thai Airways said continued improvements to Bangladesh's aviation infrastructure will be important to support future growth.

Alam pointed to the need for greater airport capacity, more efficient aircraft turnaround, improved passenger processing and expanded digital aviation services. He also called for constructive cooperation among airlines, airports and regulators and a predictable regulatory environment.

Looking ahead, Thai Airways plans to build on its Bangkok hub and evaluate additional capacity, frequencies and network opportunities as demand develops.

After more than 60 years in Bangladesh, the airline's objective is to remain a preferred carrier for Bangladeshi travelers while positioning Bangkok as a gateway connecting the country with a wider range of global destinations.