AirAsia is expanding into South Asia, offering direct service from Bangkok to Colombo in Sri Lanka on Dec 14.
The move is meant to serve high demand for Buddhist tourism enthusiasts from Thailand and neighbouring countries, as well as to attract shoppers from Sri Lanka.
Santisuk Klongchaiya, chief executive at Thai AirAsia, said Sri Lanka has many alluring and new travel experiences for Thai visitors. The airline has long seen its potential for growth.
Tourism has recorded a remarkable expansion in the country, with more travel information available to tourists, he said.
For travellers looking for a novel experience, AirAsia believes Colombo will prove popular for both Thais and foreigners.
Sri Lankans have shown an increased interest in Thailand for its shopping and vibrant sightseeing, and the route will launch just in time for peak travel season in Sri Lanka. The airline hopes to receive strong feedback from the market.
AirAsia has operated flights to Bandaranaike airport in Colombo for close to 10 years, flying from Kuala Lumpur. The airline intends to invest further in Sri Lanka to make itself the leading choice for travellers from the island.
Thailand's Tourism and Sports Ministry reported international arrivals from countries in South Asia grew by 16% last year to 1.77 million, generating 79.3 billion baht in income, up more than 20% year-on-year. Some 63,000 Sri Lankans visited Thailand last year, generating 2.68 billion baht in tourism income, down 7.2% and 6.5%, respectively, said the ministry.