We’re genuinely excited to see Virgin Atlantic launching direct flights from London Heathrow to Phuket, marking the first time in many years that you’ll be able to fly straight to one of Thailand’s islands on a scheduled service. The inaugural flight departs on 18 October, landing perfectly in time for October half term and opening up southern Thailand in a way that feels long overdue.
Virgin Atlantic’s reputation for excellent service makes this route even more appealing, with Economy, Premium and Upper Class cabins all available, so there’s plenty of choice depending on how you like to travel. Flights operate overnight from London Heathrow, departing at 11:45 and arriving into Phuket at 06:55 the following morning, while the return leaves Phuket at 09:20 and lands back into Heathrow at 16:00. It’s a relaxed, civilised schedule that works beautifully for a holiday start and finish.
The route doesn’t just make Phuket easier, it unlocks the wider region too. From here it’s straightforward to continue north to Khao Lak, travel overland to Krabi and Koh Lanta, or head further south to Thailand’s island-dotted Andaman coast. It also works brilliantly for multi-centre journeys, combining beach, rainforest and a real sense of contrast.
To mark the launch, we’re highlighting a couple of ways this new service could work in practice. One is a straightforward, one-flight holiday to Phuket with seven nights at The Surin from £2,195 per person, ideal for a relaxed beach stay without the need for onward connections. Another option is a more layered journey, combining Khao Lak, an immersive stay at Elephant Hills, and finishing on the serene shores of Six Senses Yao Noi. It’s a great example of how this new route opens up some of southern Thailand’s most rewarding experiences.
After years of indirect routings, this new service feels like a small but significant shift, and one we’re very much looking forward to building into our Thailand journeys.
