Virgin Blue announced today that its international airline, Pacific Blue Airlines, will launch direct flights from Perth to Phuket from 14 November as it continues to expand both its domestic and international route network in and out of Western Australia.
The carrier will provide the only direct flights, twice a week from Perth to the popular Thailand resort island of Phuket, which is loved by Australian travellers for all its sensational food, affordable Thai style massages, super shopping, relaxing retreats and vibrant nightlife.
The Perth-Phuket flights have a flying time of around six and a half hours and the new services will launch just in time for the peak December summer holiday period and provide a perfect option for a long weekend escape, an extended honeymoon or romantic rendezvous, a boys cheeky week/girls getaway or a family style holiday.
Virgin Blue took the decision to direct one of its modern Boeing 737-800 aircraft on to the route following a trend for travellers to holiday in destinations closer to home and that offer true affordability and value for money where they can get more bang for their buck.
In true Virgin style, a $299* one-way „Tuk Tuk Off To Phuket“ launch fare will be on sale from now until midnight Wednesday 26 August 2009 and is for travel on direct flights between Perth and Phuket from November 14 – 12 December 2009 and 26 January – 30 March 2010. virginblue.com.au
Everyday lead in fares for Perth-Phuket flights will start from $399* one way on the net.
Thailand will be Virgin Blue Group’s second international destination from Perth following the airline’s foray in to South East Asia late last year when it launched direct flights from Perth to Bali which continue to trend ahead of expectations.
Virgin Blue Chief Executive, Brett Godfrey, said, „We are excited to be bringing Phuket, Thailand within easier reach for people in West Australia and as the only carrier operating non-stop return flights between Perth and Phuket, we are pleased to be making one of Thailand’s holiday hot spots a convenient destination and affordable option for West Australian travellers.“
„While West Australian’s are used to having Bali in their backyard, Phuket has been out of reach, not just because of no direct service but price also. By this announcement, all that has now changed. This new destination for WA provides a whole different cultural and culinary holiday experience.“
Virgin Blue will closely monitor demand for the new Phuket flights to determine future schedules and frequencies based on support for the new services.
For further information on fares and schedules, visit
* Subject to regulatory approval. All fares are subject to availability, are for one way travel and include taxes, fares and surcharges. Seats are limited and may not be available at peak times or on all flights. Fares are one way on the net or $15 more by phone. A credit card surcharge of $5 per person per one way flight is applicable for flights internationally. Fares are correct as at 19 August 2009 and are subject to change. International return fare may vary with the addition of local taxes and charges.
