Thai AirAsia to end Don Mueang-Incheon route after 12 years

BANGKOK — Thai AirAsia will permanently end its direct Don Mueang-Incheon service from 25 October, bringing the 12-year route to an end amid high fuel costs, changing travel patterns and intense competition.

The airline will gradually shift aircraft and resources towards domestic routes and markets in Vietnam and other CLMV countries, where it sees stronger returns.

The decision comes after Thai AirAsia reported a net loss of 2.326 billion baht in the second quarter of 2026, as a sharp rise in jet fuel prices pushed fuel expenses up 43% year on year. The airline also cut capacity by 13% during the quarter.

The Don Mueang-Incheon route has also faced weaker demand from Thai travellers. South Korean media reported that at least 91 Thai group tours, involving 9,947 people, cancelled trips to South Korea in 2023 following issues related to the Korea Electronic Travel Authorisation (K-ETA).

The route was previously operated daily using Airbus A320neo aircraft, with flights FD677 from Don Mueang to Incheon and FD678 on the return journey.

Thai AirAsia said passengers holding bookings for affected flights will have four options: a free one-time date change for travel by 24 October, a full refund, a credit account for future bookings, or a rerouting via Kuala Lumpur.

The airline has also been reducing capacity in some highly competitive international markets while focusing on routes with stronger demand and returns.