Domestic flying to and from Phuket gets easier this quarter. Thai AirAsia has said it will scale up capacity for October to December 2026, according to a report dated 31 August.
The airline plans up to 135 domestic flights a day across its network, which is more than 50 percent above its third-quarter peak average of 88. From 1 October, it lists up to 15 daily flights between Don Mueang and Phuket, and five daily flights between Suvarnabhumi and Phuket.
Two new Phuket routes start on 25 October: Khon Kaen with up to three flights a week, and Udon Thani with up to four. If you have wanted to see the northeast without routing through Bangkok, that is a useful opening.
Bangkok connections to Chiang Mai, Hat Yai, Krabi, Khon Kaen, Udon Thani, Chiang Rai and Ubon Ratchathani are also increasing.
The airline's stated reason is that it expects domestic tourism to rebound through the fourth quarter and into early 2027. The report notes this follows a recent service reduction tied to higher fuel prices and softer demand, so schedules can change.
Practical tips: book peak-season dates earlier, because added seats do not mean cheap seats around Christmas. Check baggage allowances before you pay, since budget fares exclude most extras. And keep a buffer day before any international departure.