Bangkok Airways
Thailand’s scheduled boutique airline, offering full-service domestic and regional international flights with a particularly strong network through Bangkok and Koh Samui.
About Bangkok Airways
Bangkok Airways began in 1968 as Sahakol Air, initially operating charter services before adopting its current name in 1989. Today it operates as Bangkok Airways Public Company Limited, a publicly listed Thai company. The carrier has developed a boutique-airline identity, combining a compact network with full-service features that commonly include checked baggage, onboard refreshments and access to passenger lounges at selected airports.
Bangkok is the primary hub, followed by major departure points at Koh Samui, Phuket, Singapore and Chiang Mai. Bangkok Airways operates 57 routes serving 22 destinations across 13 countries. Its network combines Thai leisure and business centres with regional cities such as Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Abu Dhabi, Dhaka, Guilin and Hong Kong, while Koh Samui remains especially important to its domestic and international operations.
Aircraft recorded across the airline’s marketed route network include the Aerospatiale/Alenia ATR 72, Airbus A319, Airbus A320, Boeing 737-800 and Boeing 777-300ER. Bangkok Airways’ own scheduled operations are principally associated with ATR turboprops and Airbus narrow-body jets, while other aircraft may appear on partner-operated services. Economy Class is widely available, and Blue Ribbon Club business-class service is offered on selected flights rather than throughout the network.
Bangkok Airways is not a member of Star Alliance, SkyTeam or Oneworld, although it maintains codeshare and interline relationships with several international carriers. These partnerships broaden the range of destinations sold under connecting or shared-flight arrangements. Its frequent-flyer programme is FlyerBonus, through which members can earn and redeem points with Bangkok Airways and participating airline, travel and lifestyle partners, subject to the applicable fare and membership rules.
The airline’s main strength is its connectivity to Thai leisure destinations, particularly Koh Samui, where it operates the airport and maintains a substantial schedule. Complimentary lounges at selected airports can also improve the ground experience for eligible passengers. A fair challenge is that fares may exceed those offered by low-cost competitors, especially on routes with limited competition, so travellers should compare baggage, flexibility and service inclusions alongside the headline price.
Good to know
Flying with Bangkok Airways — what to expect
Full-Service Inclusions
Bangkok Airways fares commonly include checked baggage and onboard refreshments, although allowances and benefits depend on the fare and operating carrier. Check the conditions shown on your booking.
Airport Lounge Access
The airline provides complimentary passenger lounges at selected airports for eligible travellers. Facilities and opening times vary by location.
Check Operating Carrier
Some itineraries are sold through codeshare or interline partnerships and may be operated by another airline. Confirm the operating carrier because baggage, seating and onboard service can differ.
Mixed Aircraft Types
Bangkok Airways’ own flights commonly use ATR turboprops or Airbus narrow-body aircraft. Cabin space, seat layout and business-class availability vary by aircraft and route.
Koh Samui Connections
Koh Samui is one of the airline’s busiest departure points and an important gateway to nearby islands. Allow adequate time for onward ferry or road transfers, particularly during unsettled weather.
Compare Total Value
As a full-service airline, Bangkok Airways may include benefits that low-cost competitors sell separately. Compare baggage, refreshments, change conditions and airport convenience as well as the base fare.
Network overview
Where Bangkok Airways flies
Bangkok Airways operates 57 routes to 22 destinations across 13 countries, its longest sector reaching Abu Dhabi to Bangkok (4,967 km nonstop).
Destinations served
Cities Bangkok Airways flies to, most-served first.
Main hubs
Busiest departure bases, by route count.
Fleet
Aircraft types on record for these routes.
Longest nonstop route
Abu Dhabi → Bangkok
4,967 km · AUH → BKK
The longest sector in the Bangkok Airways network, measured as the great-circle distance between the two airports.
Route data · TravelPayouts route data · updated 2026-07
Route network
Popular routes operated by Bangkok Airways
Notable destinations on Bangkok Airways's network.
PGBangkokdirectPGKoh SamuidirectPGPhuketdirectPGSingaporedirectPGKuala LumpurdirectPGAbu DhabidirectPGChiang MaidirectPGPattayadirectPGDhakadirectPGGuilindirectPGHong KongdirectPGKrabidirectDestination list is indicative of Bangkok Airways's network; see the airline's official route map for its complete, current schedule.
More from Thailand
Other airlines based in Thailand
FAQ
Bangkok Airways — frequently asked questions
Quick answers to the details travellers usually check first, from codes and locations to the practical basics that help with planning.
8 common questions
- Bangkok is Bangkok Airways’ primary hub. Its other busiest departure points are Koh Samui, Phuket, Singapore and Chiang Mai.
- Cabin baggage is subject to size and weight limits that can vary by aircraft and operating carrier, particularly between ATR and jet services. Check the allowance attached to your booking before travel.
- Bangkok Airways serves exactly 22 destinations across 13 countries. It operates 57 routes within this network.
- Originfacts compares live fares from hundreds of airlines and travel agencies via its partner Travelpayouts. Originfacts never adds a fee.
- Tickets are often cheaper outside Thai public holidays and peak beach-travel periods, especially when booked in advance. Comparing midweek departures and flexible dates can reveal lower fares.
- Bangkok Airways serves destinations across Thailand and regional international markets. Its network includes Bangkok, Koh Samui, Phuket, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Abu Dhabi, Chiang Mai, Pattaya, Dhaka, Guilin, Hong Kong and Krabi.
- The longest route is Abu Dhabi to Bangkok, covering about 4,967 km nonstop. Travellers should check the booking details to confirm the operating carrier.
- The busiest departure hubs are Bangkok, Koh Samui, Phuket, Singapore and Chiang Mai, in that order by number of routes. Bangkok is the airline’s primary hub.