Thai Vietjet and the IndiGo-Singapore Tourism Board collaboration reshapes the travel landscape for Indian leisure and business travelers
A new chapter in regional air connectivity and tourism collaboration is unfolding as Kolkata strengthens its role as a strategic gateway to Southeast Asia. With the launch of direct flights between Kolkata and Bangkok by Thai Vietjet Air and a year-long partnership between the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) and IndiGo, Indian travelers now have expanded access to two of Southeast Asia’s most sought-after destinations.
Together, these developments are expected to stimulate cross-border tourism, enhance business travel, and provide seamless connectivity for both leisure and corporate travelers seeking convenient and cost-effective options to explore Bangkok and Singapore.
Thai Vietjet Air to Launch Direct Kolkata–Bangkok Flights This November
Low-cost carrier Thai Vietjet Air is set to begin direct services between Kolkata and Bangkok starting November 16, 2025. Initially operating four times weekly, the frequency may increase in response to market demand.
The route offers a competitively priced alternative for travelers from Kolkata and neighboring regions eager to visit Thailand’s capital, long a favorite for Indian tourists drawn to its vibrant street life, shopping, cultural landmarks, and hospitality.
“We see strong demand in this sector and are committed to expanding our presence in the Indian market,” said Bhubet Kittiyanpanya, Deputy Head of Commercial, Thai Vietjet Air. “With flexible scheduling and attractive fares, we aim to make Bangkok more accessible to Indian travelers, particularly those seeking a convenient getaway from eastern India.”
The airline plans to scale to daily operations depending on load factors, positioning itself as a serious contender in a highly competitive sector dominated by legacy carriers and regional LCCs.
Singapore Tourism Board and IndiGo Forge Strategic Year-long Collaboration
Meanwhile, the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) and IndiGo, India’s largest airline by market share, have entered into a year-long strategic partnership to promote Singapore as a top-tier destination for Indian travelers.
The collaboration aims to boost inbound travel from India by leveraging IndiGo’s extensive domestic network, funneling travelers from secondary Indian cities into Singapore via its key hubs—including daily services from Kolkata.
“India remains a top-priority market for Singapore. This renewed collaboration with IndiGo will help us reach a wider Indian audience with targeted marketing campaigns and curated travel experiences,” said a senior representative from STB.
The partnership will include joint marketing initiatives, travel trade engagement, and digital outreach to promote Singapore’s wide-ranging appeal—from family-friendly attractions and shopping precincts to MICE infrastructure and luxury experiences.
Upgraded Travel Experience for Business Travelers
In a move to cater to the growing demand for premium air travel, IndiGo will roll out its enhanced product, IndiGoStretch (business class seating), on select flights between Singapore and key Indian metros, including Delhi and Mumbai, beginning August 2025.
This upgrade aims to attract the MICE segment and discerning business travelers who value greater comfort, convenience, and time efficiency—especially in a post-pandemic era where hybrid travel and productivity-focused itineraries are on the rise.
Singapore and Thailand Among Top Southeast Asian Destinations for Indian Tourists
India continues to be one of the largest source markets for both Singapore and Thailand. According to STB, more than 500,000 Indian visitors traveled to Singapore in the first half of 2025 alone—a testament to the city-state’s enduring popularity among Indian travelers.
Similarly, Thailand remains a perennial favorite, with growing demand for destinations such as Bangkok, Phuket, and Krabi. The new direct link from Kolkata is expected to support this demand and unlock potential for increased outbound travel from eastern India.
Stronger Regional Integration and Economic Potential
These new aviation and tourism partnerships not only cater to growing tourist demand but also hold strategic economic value by promoting bilateral business exchanges, cultural engagement, and long-term regional integration.
The combination of affordable fares, enhanced connectivity, and premium travel options is set to benefit both casual holidaymakers and business professionals. Moreover, with Southeast Asia emerging as a major hub for global business, tech, and lifestyle experiences, improved air access from India will help foster deeper economic ties.
“These partnerships reflect the broader regional trend toward smarter, more connected, and accessible travel,” said a senior aviation analyst. “Kolkata is now better positioned as a springboard for travel to Southeast Asia.”
Looking Ahead
As travel rebounds and Indian travelers seek new and repeat international experiences, the dual announcements from Thai Vietjet and STB–IndiGo come at a pivotal time. They reinforce the long-term vision of strengthening travel infrastructure and tourism flows between India and Southeast Asia.
Whether for weekend escapes, cultural immersion, or business conferences, the enhanced air links from Kolkata will offer Indian travelers more flexibility, better value, and broader choice.
With continued collaboration between airlines, tourism boards, and stakeholders, the future of outbound travel from eastern India looks increasingly bright—and deeply interconnected with Southeast Asia’s growth story.
