AirAsia unveils Phuket–Medan route to spark tourism boom
Thai AirAsia is turning up the heat on regional travel with the launch of a new direct route connecting Phuket to Medan, Indonesia, giving travellers even more reason to escape the ordinary and explore Southeast Asia’s hidden gems.
Starting June 27, AirAsia’s new route will operate four times a week, every Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday, offering a seamless connection between two culturally rich and naturally stunning destinations.
Tansita Akraritpirom, Head of Commercial at Thai AirAsia, said yesterday, April 16, that the new flight path is a strategic move to grow tourism and economic activity in both Thailand and Indonesia.
“Phuket continues to thrive as a top-tier travel hub in the region, and we’re committed to strengthening its connectivity.
“Travellers now have more reasons to explore beyond Bangkok, with direct access to Indonesia’s rich culture and natural beauty.”
AirAsia has been actively expanding its international network out of Phuket, with recent additions including direct flights to India and other ASEAN countries.
The new Phuket–Medan route builds on this momentum, targeting emerging markets and strengthening Phuket’s position as a major travel hub, reported Tempo.
Eddy Krismeidi Soemawilaga, Head of Indonesia AirAsia Affairs & Policy, hailed the move as a significant step forward.
“This route presents a highly positive opportunity, not just for international connectivity with Medan but, for deepening cross-country tourism.”
Phuket, Thailand’s largest island, continues to reign as a tourism magnet, famous for its white-sand beaches, vibrant nightlife, and lively water sports scene. Last year, the island welcomed over 11.3 million tourists, generating more than 388 billion baht for the local economy, according to Statista.
Meanwhile, Medan, Indonesia’s largest city outside Java, boasts a unique blend of cultures, Batak, Malay, Chinese, Indian, and Javanese, and serves as the gateway to the world-renowned Lake Toba, one of the largest volcanic lakes on Earth.
In 2024, North Sumatra saw a 26.32% increase in foreign arrivals, with over 250,000 tourists visiting the region, according to Statistics Indonesia.
With AirAsia’s new route, travellers now have even more reason to explore this multicultural wonder, whether it’s sipping coconut water in Phuket or diving into Medan’s sizzling street food scene.
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