The first, an Indigo Airlines flight number 6E1071, arrived from Mumbai with a total of 220 passengers on board.
The second flight, also Indigo Airlines, flight number 6E1073, was from Delhi, although there was no official report on the number of passengers on board.
Monchai Tanode, The Gnereal Manager of Phuket International Airport confirmed that the airport will receive two flights daily from India, the same level as it was prior to the via-free travel policy coming into effect yesterday.
Mr Monchai added that it is expected a total of 650 passengers will arrive each day between the two flights.
The Phuket Airport GM also confirmed that presently no direct flights are scheduled into Phuket from Taiwan although this will change from Jan 1, 2024 to correspond with the tourist high season, where one flight per day is anticipated to bring 180 passengers per flight.
The Cabinet approved the visa-free travel policy on Oct 31, permitting visitors of both Indian and Taiwanese nationality to stay in Thailand for no more than 30 days without any visa requirements. This policy will run for six months until May 10, 2024 and is expected to help boost tourism and consequently the national economy.
Mr Monchai explained that currently Phuket International Airport is welcoming approximately 1,500 arrivals per hour during peak hours, while the capacity is in excess of 2,400 people per hour.
He also confirmed that more flights are arriving daily and that the maximum number of arrivals is expected to be reached very soon.
Mr Monchai concluded by stating the airport had full cooperation from the local police at Sakhu Police Station, the tourist police and Immigration police to ensure safety measures are in place for all tourists visiting the island to make sure they have a safe and enjoyable stay.