Airlines

First direct flight of Thai Airways International to Bangkok from Brussels Airport

Significant addition to Brussels Airport's intercontinental network

On Sunday, 1 December, Thai Airways International launched its inaugural passenger flight from Brussels Airport to Bangkok. After a hiatus caused by the Covid pandemic, the airline has resumed daily direct flights to the Thai capital. This service is the sole direct connection between Belgium and Thailand. As a member of the Star Alliance airline group, Thai Airways International thus further reinforces Brussels Airport's position as a key international hub in Europe.

Thai Airways International has resumed direct passenger flights from Brussels Airport to Bangkok. This is the only non-stop route between Belgium and Thailand, with a flight time of approximately 11 hours. The first flight was launched on 1 December with an inauguration ceremony and a water salute. The airline operates Boeing 787-8 aircraft on this route, one of the most efficient models on the market in terms of both emissions and noise. In addition to their passenger service, cargo will also be transported on the flights to Asia.

"I am delighted to welcome Thai Airways International back to Brussels Airport. This connection is a significant addition to the airport's intercontinental network, serving as a major destination for both tourism and business travel. We look forward to a fruitful collaboration,” says Arnaud Feist, CEO of Brussels Airport.

The inauguration was attended by outgoing Prime Minister Alexander De Croo, the Chairman of Thai Airways International Piyasvasti Amranand, the Plan Administrator of Thai Airways International Chansin Treenuchagron, the CEO of Thai Airways International Chai Eamsiri, and Ambassadors Kanchana Patarachoke and Skander Nasra.

"The resumption of this route highlights Thai Airways’ commitment to strengthening relations between Belgium and Thailand. It opens new opportunities in tourism, trade, culture, and investment, deepening the bond between our nations. I sincerely appreciate Brussels Airport and all our partners here in Belgium for their continued support. Your trust and loyalty are the driving forces behind our success.", says Chai Eamsiri, CEO of Thai Airways International.

The daily connection to Bangkok not only reinforces Brussels Airport's position as a European hub but also provides passengers with a wide range of travel options across Asia. The new connection links Thai Airways International directly to the heart of Europe, offering access to European and international institutions, and Star Alliance's network at Brussels Airport for travel across Europe and beyond.

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About Brussels Airport

Brussels Airport is one of the most important airports in Europe. In 2025, Brussels Airport welcomed 24.4 million passengers and transported 795,000 tonnes of cargo through the airport. Brussels Airport caters for the specific needs of business travellers and holidaymakers alike, on both intra-European and long haul flights. In 2026, the airport offers direct connections between Belgium and 205 destinations worldwide, with flights operated by 83 airlines.   

The airport also offers a leading cargo platform, specialised in the transport of pharmaceutical products, perishable goods, e-commerce and live animals. Brussels Airport is the most important pharmaceutical hub in Europe.

With its SHIFT 2027 strategy Brussels Airport Company intends to strengthen its position as a major European hub, accelerate its ambitious sustainability goals, e.g. through the European Green Deal project Stargate, and continue to diversify its activities by focusing on innovation and cooperation.

Brussels Airport is the second most important economic engine in Belgium, good for 64,000 direct and indirect jobs and is owned and operated by Brussels Airport Company. The shareholders are a consortium between PMV and private investors (75%) and FPIM/SFPI (25%). 

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Contact

Press Office Brussels Airport Company Luchthaven Brussel Nationaal 1M 1930 Zaventem

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