About Bangkok Airways
Bangkok Airways is a regional carrier based in Thailand — think of it as the country's premium short-haul specialist rather than a budget airline or a full legacy operator. It sits somewhere in the middle: better service than a low-cost carrier, smaller network than a major flag carrier. With 44 non-stop routes spread across 17 airports and a total network spanning over 37,500 km, PG punches well above its size. The route map is heavily Thailand-focused, with BKK as the main hub running 10 routes, and USM on Koh Samui handling 9 more. If you're island-hopping or connecting through Southeast Asia, this airline shows up constantly.
Why fly Bangkok Airways?
Bangkok Airways has built a reputation for treating economy passengers like actual human beings, which sounds like a low bar but genuinely isn't in this part of the world. The Koh Samui hub is arguably their strongest card — USM is a Bangkok Airways-controlled airport, which means their lounges and check-in experience there are genuinely polished. For travelers heading to Cambodia, Laos, or even the Maldives, PG often offers the most direct routing without bouncing through a major international hub. That BKK-MLE route at 3,167 km is their longest and worth checking if you're positioning for a Maldives trip. Service quality is consistently above what the ticket price suggests, and that matters on routes where competitors cut corners.
Bangkok Airways hub airports
- BKK Bangkok — 10 Bangkok Airways routes from Thailand
- USM Koh Samui — 9 Bangkok Airways routes from Thailand
- HKT Phuket — 5 Bangkok Airways routes from Thailand
- CNX Chiang Mai — 4 Bangkok Airways routes from Thailand
- KBV Krabi — 3 Bangkok Airways routes from Thailand
Top destination countries on Bangkok Airways
- Thailand — 37 Bangkok Airways routes
- Cambodia — 2 Bangkok Airways routes
- Lao People's Democratic Republic — 1 Bangkok Airways routes
- Maldives — 1 Bangkok Airways routes
- China — 1 Bangkok Airways routes
- Hong Kong SAR — 1 Bangkok Airways routes
- Singapore — 1 Bangkok Airways routes
Tips for booking Bangkok Airways
Book directly through Bangkok Airways when you can — their own fare classes give you more flexibility than third-party sites, and baggage allowances can differ depending on where you buy. USM is their home turf, so expect a smoother experience there than at airports where they're a guest carrier. Their network is 84% domestic Thailand routes, so if you're building a multi-stop Thailand itinerary, PG is the connective tissue. The Cambodia routes out of BKK are worth comparing against budget competitors on price, but factor in the service difference. Always check whether your credit card travel portal prices their fares correctly — regional carriers sometimes get mislabeled fare classes that cost you points value.
Frequently asked questions about Bangkok Airways
Where does Bangkok Airways fly?
Bangkok Airways operates 44 routes primarily across Southeast Asia, with a strong focus on Thailand, Cambodia, and Lao People's Democratic Republic. The airline connects major cities and regional destinations throughout this region.
What is Bangkok Airways's main hub?
Bangkok Airways's main hub is Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) in Bangkok, Thailand, which serves as the primary base for their operations and connections.
What type of airline is Bangkok Airways?
Bangkok Airways is a regional carrier that focuses on connecting Southeast Asian destinations with a moderate network of routes. The airline specializes in serving regional markets across Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos.
When should I book flights with Bangkok Airways?
For the best fares, it's recommended to book 2-4 weeks in advance, though availability and pricing can vary by route and season. Bangkok Airways typically offers different fare classes, so compare options based on your flexibility and baggage needs.
What are Bangkok Airways's baggage and check-in policies?
Baggage allowances vary by fare class and route, so it's best to check your specific booking for details on included baggage. Check-in typically opens 24 hours before departure, with online check-in available for most flights.