Virgin Atlantic will begin seasonal non-stop flights from London Heathrow to Phuket on 18 October 2026, creating what the airline says will be the only direct air link between London and Thailand's largest island. The 14-hour service will operate three times a week throughout the winter season, using Boeing 787-9 aircraft with more than 250 seats. Most direct flights from London to Thailand currently arrive in Bangkok rather than Phuket. Flights from Heathrow will leave every Wednesday, Friday and Sunday. Return services from Phuket will operate on Thursdays, Saturdays and Mondays. A direct option for Phuket visitors The new route is aimed at British holidaymakers seeking winter sun. Virgin Atlantic already flies to destinations including the Maldives, Dubai, Cape Town and Caribbean resorts. For foreigners living in Phuket and elsewhere in southern Thailand, the service could offer a more straightforward option for family and friends visiting from the UK, without the need to transfer through Bangkok or another regional hub. It will also give UK-based travellers a direct arrival point for holidays in Phuket, rather than beginning their trip with an onward domestic flight. Phuket is a major resort destination known for its beaches, scenery and culture. Its airport is also close to Mai Khao Beach, where visitors often watch aircraft pass overhead as they approach the runway. Winter schedule begins in October Phuket's winter season runs from November to February, its drier period after the summer rains and monsoon. Daytime temperatures can still exceed 30C, while evening temperatures rarely fall below 20C. Juha Jarvinen, Virgin Atlantic's chief commercial officer, said when the route was announced: "We're thrilled to introduce our new direct service to Phuket, giving our customers a flavour of one of Southeast Asia's most captivating destinations. "As well as making the trip more convenient, they can enjoy exploring Thailand's unique heritage, natural beauty and delicious cuisine. We can't wait for our customers to experience our trademark hospitality on their next unforgettable journey." Virgin Atlantic has also partnered with Bangkok Airways, allowing travellers using the Phuket route to make connections over land and sea to other Thai destinations, including Bangkok, Koh Samui and Krabi. Travellers heading for the Andaman coast before 18 October can still book through Virgin Atlantic Holidays, but will fly with Emirates via Dubai. Seats on the inaugural flight are currently listed at about GBP1,300 one way in economy, rising to GBP4,097 for Upper Class. Picture courtesy of The Mirror Join the discussion? 30 August 2026
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