Thailand Resumes NZ Flights
Direct flights between Bangkok and Auckland to restart next year, aiming to triple trade to $7.5 billion by 2045
Thailand will resume direct flights to New Zealand and aims to triple trade with the country by 2045 as part of a strategic partnership to deepen ties between the two nations. The direct flights, to be operated by Thai Airways International, are set to restart next year, promoting trade, tourism, investment, and people movement.
The flights between Bangkok and Auckland were previously suspended by Thai Airways International due to the Covid-19 pandemic, which had stalled global air travel. However, with the restart of the flights, the two countries aim to strengthen their economic ties.
The trade target is set at US$7.5 billion, according to the Thai government, while the New Zealand government estimates it to be NZ$13.5 billion. The restart of the flights was reflected in a joint statement after talks between Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon.
New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon welcomed the return of Thai Airways International, citing benefits for tourism and trade. The two prime ministers also agreed to launch a strategic partnership to deepen relations between the two countries.
## Why it matters The resumption of direct flights and the strategic partnership between Thailand and New Zealand is significant as it aims to promote trade, tourism, investment, and people movement between the two nations. New Zealand has also reaffirmed support for Thailand's bid to join the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development. The move is expected to strengthen connections between the two countries and promote economic growth.
The direct flights will not only promote tourism but also restore an important air-freight link and strengthen connections through Bangkok to wider Asia. With the trade target set to triple by 2045, the resumption of direct flights is a significant step towards achieving this goal.
