Akasa Air, an Indian low-cost carrier, has launched daily direct service between Mumbai and Phuket, marking its first foray into Southeast Asia. The new route debuts on September 20, 2025, and makes Phuket the airline’s sixth international destination. This step expands Akasa’s footprint beyond domestic markets and connects India to the popular Thai resort island.
The Mumbai-Phuket flights will operate daily, providing regular connectivity between the two cities. With this new route, travelers from Mumbai can reach Phuket without layovers, making it more convenient for vacationers, families, and those combining business with leisure. The move also reflects broader ambitions by Akasa to grow its international network and tap into travel demand between India and Southeast Asia.
Strategic Motivations & Market Context
Akasa’s entry into Phuket highlights a few strategic priorities. First, it diversifies the airline’s international presence, giving it more routes beyond South Asia and the Middle East. Second, it targets a high-demand leisure corridor – Thailand remains a favorite destination for Indian travelers, especially during cooler months. Third, it provides stronger connectivity for outbound tourism, making regional travel more seamless.
Phuket itself is a popular tourism hub with natural beauty, resorts, beaches, and island appeal. By choosing Phuket, Akasa taps into preexisting demand, offering alternatives to the usual Bangkok-centric routes. The route also positions Akasa to later expand into additional Southeast Asia destinations via Phuket or through connecting networks.
For Akasa, adding international routes means managing regulatory challenges, slot coordination, bilateral agreements, and partnerships with local authorities. Operating an international service involves more complexity – immigration, ground handling, customs, and regional compliance. But the potential rewards in terms of brand prestige, passenger growth, and revenue diversification are significant.
What Travelers Can Expect & What to Watch
Passengers on the Mumbai–Phuket route can expect direct flights with market-competitive pricing typical of Akasa’s low-cost model. The aircraft will likely be narrow-body, configured for efficiency, and service offerings may focus on essentials plus optional add-ons. Because it’s a new international service, promotional fares or early booking incentives are expected to help fill initial flights.
As operations stabilize, added amenities or cabin classes might be introduced depending on demand. Future expansions could include additional cities in Thailand or linking Phuket to other Indian metros. For now, the daily schedule is a strong base.
However, outcomes depend on load factors and seasonal travel trends. Peak periods will draw heavier traffic, but off-peak weeks will test route economics. Competition from full-service carriers or other low-cost airlines on India-Thailand routes may impact prices and yield. Also, external factors such as fuel costs, currency fluctuations, and regulatory changes will influence sustainability.
Overall, Akasa Air’s move into Southeast Asia via Phuket is an important step. It expands its network beyond India, taps into strong tourism demand, and opens new possibilities for future growth. For travelers, it means more options, fewer stops, and more convenience on one of the region’s most desirable routes.
