BANGKOK, 2 October 2024 - Thai AirAsia celebrated its latest new domestic route, Don Mueang–Lampang, by flying popular Lampang-native actor Panitan “Mikey” Budkaew as among its guests on the inaugural flight to the city today, marking his first journey home in years. 

The popular celebrity was joined by members of his fan club on flight FD3923 that departed Don Mueang at 11.00 hrs and arrived in Lampang at 12.20 hrs. Guests on the fully-booked flight were given a special welcome ceremony at Lampang Airport. Many locals also turned up to join in the celebration and catch a glimpse of Mikey. 

Mr. Santisuk Klongchaiya, CEO of Thai AirAsia, said: “We at AirAsia are really thrilled to be introducing our newest direct domestic route to Lampang, a city that is easy to fall in love with. The route has proven to be highly popular from day one that we opened for booking,  thanks to the invaluable support from the provincial government, Tourism Authority of Thailand, and other public and private organisations. We are confident that the new Don Mueang–Lampang route, flying  daily, will provide an attractive option and further stimulate travel to Lampang in support of its economy, while also facilitating more frequent travel for work, leisure and for Lampang natives to be able to return home more frequently. We take pride in offering high service standards, affordable fares and our commitment to strong on-time performance to travelers to and from Lampang. 

Mikey Budkaew, famed actor of Thai drama Dhevaprom: Kwanruthai, said he missed his hometown and was ecstatic to be able to fly back on AirAsia's inaugural flight to be reunited with his family and loved ones in Lampang.  Born and raised in the northern city, Mikey's arrival in Lampang was enthusiastically anticipated by his local fans, friends and family. 

In a special message, Mikey invited everyone to visit Lampang with AirAsia, home to many attractions, including Wat Phrathat Lampang Luang, Wat Phrathat Doi Prachan, horse-drawn carriage rides, the original Rooster Bowl shop and charming market Kad Kongta, where Mikey kickstarted his performing career as a street busker.

In celebration of the new route, Don Mueang–Lampang flights are now available at special promotional fares from as low as only 1,100 THB one way. Book today to 6 October 2024 for travel from 1 October 2024 – 29 March 2025 via AirAsia MOVE. Guests also receive a 200 THB discount on rental vehicles when presenting an AirAsia Boarding Pass for return Don Mueang–Lampang flights on weekdays booked by 31 October 2024 for travel from 1 October 2024 onward. Redeem the privilege at the Tourism Authority of Thailand Lampang Office Facebook page or Line@tatlampang by 31 October 2024. The offer  is limited to 1 per booking and is only applicable at participating car rentals.