Bangkok, 12 December 2024 – The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) proudly welcomed Aircalin’s inaugural Noumea–Bangkok–Paris service, a pivotal milestone in positioning Thailand as a key transit point between the Asia-Pacific and Europe. By selecting Bangkok as a strategic stopover, Aircalin offers travellers seamless connectivity, enhanced convenience, and direct access to Thailand’s renowned tourism experiences.
Inaugural Ceremonies at Suvarnabhumi and Charles de Gaulle Airports
On 11 December 2024, the arrival of flight SB500 from Noumea, carrying 291 transit passengers bound for Paris, was celebrated at Suvarnabhumi Airport. Distinguished guests included H.E. Mr. Jean-Claude Poimboeuf, French Ambassador to Thailand; Aircalin President Marcel Unë; Aircalin CEO Georges Selefen; and representatives from TAT and Airports of Thailand.
“This new route underscores Thailand’s importance as a central hub connecting Europe and the Asia-Pacific,” said Mr. Siripakorn Cheawsamoot, TAT Deputy Governor for International Marketing – Europe, the Americas, Middle East, and Africa. “Aircalin’s confidence in Bangkok’s aviation infrastructure and tourism offerings gives travellers more reasons to explore Thailand’s vibrant culture, renowned hospitality, and prime global connections.”
Simultaneous celebrations at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport marked the inaugural departure of flight SB501 to Bangkok, reinforcing Thailand’s appeal to European visitors seeking efficient, flexible travel options and underscoring Bangkok’s central role in long-haul connectivity.
Networking for Future Growth
On 13 December 2024, TAT and Aircalin will host a networking dinner at Bangkok’s Vertigo Rooftop Restaurant, Banyan Tree Hotel, bringing together about 20 Thai tourism operators, media representatives, and Aircalin executives. The event aims to foster strategic partnerships and maximise the route’s commercial potential.
Aircalin’s New Corridor
Aircalin, the flag carrier of New Caledonia, now operates twice-weekly flights on the Noumea–Bangkok–Paris corridor using an Airbus A330-900 with 291 seats in Business Hibiscus, Premium Economy, and Economy classes.
Flight SB500 departs Noumea at 01.45, arrives in Bangkok at 07.55, and continues to Paris at 09.55, arriving at 17.25 the same day. SB501 departs Paris at 20.30, arrives in Bangkok at 14.40 the following day, and departs at 16.40, reaching Noumea at 06.30 two days later.
This convenient route links Noumea, Bangkok, and Paris, expanding Southeast Asian market access, leveraging Bangkok’s exceptional airport network, and boosting tourism flows.
Aircalin’s new service complements existing connections between Thailand and France, including Air France’s thrice-weekly and Thai Airways International’s daily flights on the Bangkok–Paris route, as well as Air Austral’s twice-weekly Reunion–Bangkok service.
Key Market Insights
In 2019, Thailand welcomed 713,405 French visitors. Although arrivals declined during the pandemic, recovery is underway, with 545,003 French travellers in 2023 and 640,996 from January–November 2024. Of these, 89.02% were independent travellers, spending an average of 67,376 Baht per trip and staying around 18 days, exploring destinations such as Bangkok, Krabi, Phuket, Surat Thani, and Chiang Mai.
