Pattaya gains momentum as airlines launch new domestic routes connecting regional Thailand. PATTAYA, Thailand – Pattaya is becoming increasingly connected to the rest of Thailand thanks to a wave of new domestic routes launched by three major airlines—Thai AirAsia, Thai Lion Air, and newcomer EZY Airlines—between June and July 2025. The move is seen as a boost not only to tourism but also to local economies and transportation networks across the country. According to Danai Rueangsorn, Director-General of the Department of Airports (DOA), the new flight routes are part of the government’s “New Route – New Airline” policy aimed at improving regional connectivity, economic opportunity, and travel convenience. These efforts are aligned with the Ministry of Transport’s broader strategy to position Thailand as a regional aviation hub. U-Tapao to Udon Thani Now Operational Thai Lion Air has opened two domestic routes, including a direct service connecting U-Tapao Airport—just outside Pattaya—with Udon Thani in northeastern Thailand. Operating four flights per week since June 11, this route enhances Pattaya’s accessibility from Isan. Additionally, the airline has launched daily flights between Don Mueang and Nakhon Phanom, which began on June 19. EZY Airlines Joins the Market Adding to the mix, new low-cost carrier EZY Airlines has launched a Hat Yai–Betong–Hat Yai service, flying three times per week starting June 27. This route opens up travel to Thailand’s southern border, offering new opportunities for trade, tourism, and cross-border collaboration. U-Tapao Airport now links Pattaya with Udon Thani, thanks to Thai Lion Air’s new route. Thai AirAsia Doubles Down on Suvarnabhumi Connections Thai AirAsia is rapidly expanding its operations from Suvarnabhumi Airport to several regional destinations managed by the DOA. These new routes include: Suvarnabhumi–Narathiwat–Suvarnabhumi (7 flights/week) Suvarnabhumi–Buriram–Suvarnabhumi (3 flights/week) Suvarnabhumi–Surat Thani–Suvarnabhumi (7 flights/week, launched July 1) Upcoming: Suvarnabhumi–Nakhon Si Thammarat–Suvarnabhumi (7 flights/week during high season) Thai AirAsia expands Suvarnabhumi network, boosting access to southern and northeastern provinces. These additions give travelers in Pattaya and nearby regions more flexible domestic options and allow for easier connections between Thailand’s major population centers and its often-overlooked secondary cities. Danai emphasized that the partnership between the government and private sector is key to expanding the role of regional airports like U-Tapao. By increasing domestic connectivity, the initiative supports Thailand’s broader goals of reducing income disparity through tourism and improving logistics infrastructure under the policy of “Transport for Opportunity.” As airlines increasingly link cities like Pattaya to more destinations nationwide, the city is poised to benefit from increased visitor flows, improved accessibility, and long-term economic momentum driven by the aviation sector. EZY Airlines debuts Hat Yai–Betong route as part of nationwide push to strengthen air travel.