Virgin Atlantic launches nonstop Heathrow to Phuket service

Virgin Atlantic has commenced its first direct service between London Heathrow Airport and Phuket International Airport in Thailand. The seasonal winter route began operations on October 18, 2026, and is scheduled to run three times weekly—on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays—until late March.

The service utilizes Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft, including the plane named ‘Queen Bee’. The flight from London to Phuket is scheduled to take approximately 12 hours and 10 minutes, while the return journey is estimated at 13 hours and 40 minutes. The aircraft currently features a 258-seat configuration, though the airline has announced plans for a future cabin refit to increase premium seating capacity.

Representatives from the Tourism Authority of Thailand and Phuket International Airport participated in a welcoming ceremony for the inaugural flight. The new route aims to provide UK travelers with greater access to the Thai beach destination during the winter season, positioning Virgin Atlantic as the only UK airline currently operating this specific direct route.