Surat Airport international flights in May 2026 are undergoing significant changes. Some long-standing services have been suspended, while key routes are scheduled to resume mid-month. Air India Express will restart direct flights to Dubai on May 17, 2026. However, the Bangkok route has been discontinued. Travelers should plan accordingly and check for real-time updates.
Key Flight Updates
Several important changes affect international travel from Surat Airport as of May 2026.
- Air India Express Resumption: Direct flights to Dubai resume May 17, 2026. Bookings are now open.
- Service Suspension to Bangkok: Air India Express has discontinued direct flights to Bangkok (BKK) as of early May 2026. Travelers are rerouted through Delhi (DEL) or Mumbai (BOM).
- Deferred Services: Certain international services remain deferred due to regional conflicts and operational adjustments.
Operational Context
Understanding the current operational status helps travelers plan better for Surat Airport international flights.
- International Status: STV maintains its international gateway status despite suspensions, supported by ongoing infrastructure upgrades.
- Alternative Hubs: Travelers for routes no longer served are advised to use Ahmedabad (AMD) or Mumbai (BOM) for international connections.
- Domestic Expansion: Connectivity to major Indian hubs has increased, including new direct flights to Navi Mumbai and Noida (Jewar), facilitating easier transit for overseas travelers.
- Traveler Note: Verify flight status directly with Air India Express or IndiGo, as schedules are subject to intermittent changes based on regulatory approvals.
Direct International Flight Schedules (May 2026)
The primary international route from Surat remains Dubai, with limited frequency.
- Primary Route: Surat (STV) to Dubai (DXB)
- Air India Express (Resuming May 17, 2026): 4 to 6 flights per week. STV to DXB departs at 02:10 AM or 15:30 PM, approximately 3.5 hours. Flight numbers IX-273 and IX-274.
- IndiGo: Non-stop flights available during peak summer windows (Flight example: 6E1507)
- Alternative Routes: Travelers to full or unavailable flights can connect via Mumbai (BOM) or Ahmedabad (AMD)
Customs & Immigration Services
Surat Airport has implemented high-tech upgrades for international travelers to streamline the process.
- Fast Track Immigration (FTI-TTP): Biometric registration for faster clearance using e-gates
- E-Visa Facility: Foreign nationals with e-visas can now fly directly into Surat without landing at a larger hub
- Airport Capacity Upgrades (May 14, 2026): Five additional aircraft bays for simultaneous handling. Parallel Taxi Track (PTT) fully operational, doubling runway utilization and reducing taxi times
Latest Visa Requirements (May 2026)
Visa requirements vary by destination. Travelers should prepare documents in advance.
UAE (Dubai / Sharjah):
- Valid passport (6 months minimum)
- Health insurance
- Negative PCR if required
- Registration via ALHOSN App mandatory
Thailand:
- Visa on Arrival (VoA) available
- Check the Thai E-Visa portal for updates
Visa Fees (May 2026):
- 30-Day Single Entry: ~₹6,000 to ₹7,800
- 60-Day Single Entry: ~₹11,500 to ₹13,500
- Transit Visa (96 Hours): ~₹3,500 to ₹4,300
Mandatory Documents:
- Passport (valid at least 6 months)
- Recent passport-size photos (white background)
- Confirmed tickets (return or onward)
- Accommodation proof or sponsor address
- Financial proof (bank statements or sufficient funds ₹50,000 to ₹1 lakh)
Quick Tip: Book visas at least 2 weeks prior to travel for a 3 to 5 day processing window.
Flight Prices (May 2026)
Ticket prices for Surat to Dubai vary by airline and booking date.
- STV to DXB: ₹12,291 to ₹33,750 (one-way economy)
- Air India Express: ₹20,000 to ₹31,000 for direct flights
- May 11, 2026: Air India direct flight ₹33,750
- May 15, 2026: Air India Express non-stop ₹22,445; 1-stop ₹12,291
- May 27, 2026: Air India direct ₹20,274
Conclusion
Surat Airport international flights in May 2026 require careful planning due to suspensions and resumptions. The Dubai route remains operational with Air India Express restarting on May 17. Travelers should check real-time schedules, complete visa requirements in advance, and consider alternate hubs for unavailable destinations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. When do direct flights from Surat to Dubai resume?
A1. Air India Express resumes direct flights from Surat to Dubai on May 17, 2026, with 4 to 6 flights per week.
Q2. Are there direct flights from Surat to Bangkok in May 2026?
A2. No, Air India Express has discontinued direct flights to Bangkok as of early May 2026. Travelers must connect via Delhi or Mumbai.
Q3. What is the visa fee for a 30-day single entry to Thailand?
A3. The visa fee for a 30-day single entry to Thailand is approximately ₹6,000 to ₹7,800.
Q4. What new infrastructure upgrades have been implemented at Surat Airport?
A4. Surat Airport has added five new parking bays and a fully operational Parallel Taxi Track (PTT) for faster runway utilization.
Q5. What documents are required for UAE travel from Surat?
A5. Required documents include a valid passport (6 months), health insurance, negative PCR if required, and registration via the ALHOSN App.