Thailand to launch direct charter flights to Meghalaya by December 2025

Thailand to Launch Direct Charter Flights to Meghalaya by December 2025

Thailand is set to launch direct charter flights to Meghalaya by December 2025, marking a major milestone in strengthening tourism and cultural ties between the two regions. The initiative is expected to significantly boost travel between Thailand and India’s Northeast, enabling Thai tourists to experience Meghalaya’s breathtaking landscapes and vibrant traditions with ease.

The announcement followed a Tourism Promotion event held on October 14, 2025, in Shillong, jointly organised by the Emerging North-East Eco Forum (ENEEF), the Government of Meghalaya, and a high-level Thai delegation. The forum focused on enhancing regional tourism cooperation and promoting sustainable travel practices.

Officials from both sides highlighted that the new air route will open seamless travel opportunities, facilitating greater cultural exchange and economic growth. With the introduction of chartered flights, travel time between Thailand and Meghalaya will be considerably reduced, offering tourists a more direct and convenient connection to the Northeast.

Strengthening Tourism and Cultural Links

Meghalaya, often described as one of India’s most scenic and culturally rich destinations, is known for its lush green hills, waterfalls, crystal-clear rivers, and the world-famous living root bridges. However, the state’s tourism potential has been somewhat limited by connectivity challenges. The new flight service aims to bridge that gap, bringing in international visitors eager to explore the region’s natural and cultural heritage.

Thailand, on the other hand, is looking to diversify its tourism offerings beyond mainstream destinations. By collaborating with Meghalaya, it aims to tap into eco-tourism and adventure tourism opportunities while sharing its expertise in hospitality and sustainable tourism management.

Focus on Sustainable Tourism

The collaboration aligns with India’s growing emphasis on sustainable and eco-friendly tourism. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to promoting responsible travel that preserves natural ecosystems while supporting local communities. Discussions at the event revolved around eco-cultural exchanges, infrastructure development, and the need to adopt global best practices in sustainable tourism.

Representatives from ENEEF stressed that the partnership with Thailand is not merely about boosting tourist arrivals but about building a foundation for long-term, inclusive growth. They highlighted the importance of preserving Meghalaya’s biodiversity while developing tourism infrastructure that aligns with environmental priorities.

Joint Promotion and Future Prospects

In addition to the direct flights, the event also emphasised the need for joint promotional campaigns to attract international tourists. The two sides plan to collaborate on marketing initiatives highlighting cultural festivals, eco-tourism experiences, and adventure travel. These efforts are expected to strengthen the tourism brand of Meghalaya and the wider Northeast region across Southeast Asia.

Officials from the Government of Meghalaya and Thailand praised the shared vision of fostering sustainable tourism linkages. The initiative underscores how cross-border collaboration between governments, tourism bodies, and private stakeholders can lead to mutually beneficial outcomes.

As the world increasingly prioritises responsible travel, the Thailand–Meghalaya partnership stands out as a model for balancing tourism growth with cultural preservation and environmental sustainability. With the launch of charter flights in December 2025, both regions are set to embark on a new chapter of connectivity, cooperation, and shared prosperity.