Surat : Surat is set to enhance its air connectivity with the introduction of direct flights to Bangkok and Mumbai, as part of the upcoming winter schedule announced by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). Air India Express will operate a new four-day-a-week service between Surat and Bangkok, providing Surtis with direct international connectivity starting in late November or early December.
The flights to Bangkok will run on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. According to initial plans, the aircraft will arrive in Surat from Chennai the previous night at 10 PM as part of a Chennai-Surat flight. The following morning, it will depart for Bangkok at 6:30 AM, returning at 2:50 PM the same day. After landing in Surat, the same plane will continue to Chennai at 4:40 PM, boosting domestic connectivity.
The new service comes in response to requests from the “We Work for Working Airports at Surat” group and the Surat Diamond Bourse Committee, who had been advocating for better international connectivity. Air India Express Managing Director Alok Singh recently visited Surat and toured the Surat Diamond Bourse, where the proposal for the Bangkok flight was discussed.
The airline’s winter schedule, effective from October 27, also includes plans for a daily direct flight between Surat and Mumbai, beginning October 28. The Mumbai flight is scheduled to arrive in Surat at 8:20 AM, with a return flight to Mumbai at 8:50 AM. This development is seen as a boon for diamond traders who frequently travel between the two cities and will be especially beneficial for Surtis arriving at Mumbai airport from international destinations during late-night hours.
For the past year, Surat lacked a direct connection to Mumbai, a key route for many travelers. The reintroduction of this service is expected to operate at full capacity, reflecting the strong demand among business commuters and frequent flyers.
The upcoming flights mark a significant improvement in Surat’s air connectivity, catering to both international and domestic travelers. The Surat-Bangkok service, in particular, will provide Surtis with convenient access to Southeast Asia, facilitating trade and tourism between the two regions. Meanwhile, the renewed Surat-Mumbai link will restore a crucial travel corridor for professionals, especially those in the diamond industry, who rely on seamless transit for business operations.
