Winter sun plans to Thailand are set to become easier for UK travellers, as Norse Atlantic prepares to launch a direct London Gatwick (LGW)–Phuket (HKT) service for Winter 2026/27. The new route is expected to enhance long-haul leisure access during peak travel periods such as Christmas, New Year, and the February half-term.

Phuket continues to rank among the most in-demand winter sun destinations for UK travellers, known for its warm climate, island-hopping experiences, luxury resorts, and vibrant coastal lifestyle. The addition of a direct service from Gatwick will significantly reduce journey times compared to indirect routing via Middle Eastern or Asian hubs, making the destination more accessible for both short and extended stays.

While Norse Atlantic has been gradually adjusting its long-haul network, the airline currently operates a more limited transatlantic footprint. With a reduced number of US routes, including a scaled-back focus beyond Orlando, the expansion into leisure-led Asian destinations such as Thailand signals a clearer shift towards seasonal tourism demand rather than broad intercontinental coverage. Industry observers suggest the carrier may eventually need to reassess its branding strategy as its route network becomes increasingly concentrated.

For UK departures, this development adds healthy competition on the London–Thailand corridor, particularly for travellers seeking more direct holiday options to Phuket.

As always, demand for winter dates is expected to be strong, and availability on preferred departures is likely to tighten closer to the season. Travellers are encouraged to plan early, and our team can arrange flights, hotel stays, and complete Thailand holiday packages through tailored itineraries rather than direct airline bookings.

For the most suitable routing, pricing options, and flexible travel plans, we can organise everything end-to-end to ensure a smooth and well-planned Thailand holiday experience from the UK.