British Airways (BA) has confirmed a major expansion of its long-haul schedule for summer 2026, with a strong focus on Thailand. The airline will add 60,000 seats to Bangkok, cementing its presence in one of the most sought-after routes for UK travellers.
Bangkok Becomes a Year-Round Route from Gatwick
Flights to Bangkok, which BA relaunched in 2023 as a winter-only service, will become a year-round operation from London Gatwick from summer 2026. The airline will operate three flights per week during the summer, rising to six flights per week in the winter.
This significant capacity increase follows the expansion of BA’s codeshare partnership with Bangkok Airways, giving customers greater connectivity across Southeast Asia. Travellers flying into Bangkok will now be able to connect seamlessly to other destinations such as Phuket, Koh Samui, Chiang Mai, Phnom Penh, and Siem Reap.
How Does This Compare to Other Airlines?
At present, only two airlines offer direct flights between the UK and Bangkok:
- Thai Airways International – Non-stop services from London Heathrow.
- EVA Air – Non-stop services from London Heathrow.
British Airways’ expansion from Gatwick will therefore provide a valuable alternative for travellers, particularly those based outside of London who prefer Gatwick’s convenience.
Meanwhile, leisure operator TUI Airways also caters to the growing demand for Thailand, operating a winter schedule of direct flights to Phuket from both Manchester and Gatwick. These flights give holidaymakers a direct link to Thailand’s most popular island, complementing BA’s expanded Bangkok operations.
Wider Benefits for UK Travellers
The increased capacity and regional connections will benefit both leisure and business travellers:
- More Choice – With BA joining EVA Air and Thai Airways on direct flights to Bangkok, travellers now have greater flexibility.
- Regional Access – Codeshare links with Bangkok Airways mean easy onward journeys to secondary cities and holiday destinations.
- Competitive Fares – Increased capacity usually drives better pricing, which could be welcome news for travellers seeking affordable long-haul options.
- Convenience – The Gatwick departure option will suit those in South East England, while Heathrow remains a major hub for premium passengers.
A Growing Appetite for Thailand
Thailand continues to grow in popularity with UK travellers thanks to its mix of culture, beaches, and value for money. Demand for both city breaks in Bangkok and island escapes in Phuket, Koh Samui, and Krabi has soared in recent years.
British Airways’ expanded schedule not only strengthens the UK–Thailand connection but also supports the wider travel industry, giving holidaymakers and tour operators more options to create tailored itineraries across Southeast Asia.