Thailand to increase airport tax by 53% for international flights

Thailand’s Civil Aviation Board has approved a 53% increase in the passenger service charge, commonly known as the airport tax, for international flights. According to a report by Bangkok Post, the new fee will rise from 730 baht to 1,120 baht, Transport Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn said. The hike is expected to take effect early next year.

The passenger service charge is included in ticket prices at the time of purchase. Domestic flights will not see a change, with the fee remaining at 130 baht.

Airports of Thailand Plc (AOT), which operates six major airports including Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, Phuket, Chiang Mai, Hat Yai, and Chiang Rai, applied for the increase.


AOT expects the higher fee to generate around 10 billion baht in additional annual revenue, based on an average of 35 million international passengers across its airports. Officials said the extra funds will be invested to improve airport services and passenger facilities.

The board will gather feedback and publish the new rate four months before implementation to allow travellers and airlines to prepare.