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| Don Mueang International Airport |
The fee adjustment, which takes effect on 20 June 2026, is designed to support major airport infrastructure improvements and future aviation growth. While authorities say the additional revenue will help deliver better facilities and services, some industry observers believe the increase may place additional financial pressure on international travellers.
International Departure Charges To Rise By More Than Fifty Per Cent
Airports of Thailand Plc (AOT), the operator of Thailand's major international gateways, has officially confirmed that the international departure passenger service charge will increase from 730 baht to 1,120 baht per person.
The revised fee represents an increase of more than 53 per cent and will apply exclusively to passengers departing on international flights.
Domestic passengers will not be affected by the change.
The new charge will be collected at all six airports managed by AOT, which collectively handle the majority of Thailand's international air traffic.
Six Major Airports Included In The New Fee Structure
The higher international departure charge will apply to travellers departing from:
Suvarnabhumi Airport
Suvarnabhumi Airport - Don Mueang Airport
- Chiang Mai Airport
- Mae Fah Luang Chiang Rai Airport
- Phuket Airport
- Hat Yai Airport
These airports serve as critical gateways for millions of visitors arriving in Thailand each year and play a central role in the nation's tourism industry.
The increase is expected to generate additional revenue that will be invested into airport expansion projects, technology upgrades, passenger facilities and operational improvements designed to accommodate future growth.
Airport Upgrades Aim To Support Growing Visitor Numbers
Thailand remains one of the world's most popular travel destinations, attracting visitors from across Asia, Europe, North America and Australia.
As international tourism continues to recover and expand, airport infrastructure is facing increasing pressure to accommodate larger passenger volumes while maintaining service standards.
According to AOT, the higher passenger service charge will help fund improvements including terminal enhancements, capacity expansion projects, operational technology upgrades and passenger experience initiatives.
Modern airport infrastructure is increasingly important as Thailand competes with other major Asian destinations for international visitors, airline routes and aviation investment.
From Proposal To Confirmed Policy
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| Suvarnabhumi Airport |
The process began in December 2025 when Thailand's Civil Aviation Board approved the increase in principle. At that stage, final ministerial and regulatory approvals were still required before implementation could proceed.
The proposal moved closer to reality on 20 February 2026 when AOT formally notified the Stock Exchange of Thailand and the public that the new rate of 1,120 baht had been approved, with an implementation date of 20 June 2026.
The latest announcement effectively confirms that all necessary approvals have now been completed, with the Ministry of Transport providing final authorisation and no further delays anticipated.
What International Travellers Need To Know
For most travellers, the increase will likely be incorporated into airline ticket pricing or airport charges depending on the airline and booking process.
Visitors planning holidays to Thailand after June 2026 should factor the higher departure charge into their travel budgets, particularly families and larger groups where the additional cost may become more noticeable.
Despite the increase, Thailand remains highly competitive compared with many international destinations, thanks to its wide range of accommodation options, affordable dining, extensive domestic transport network and diverse tourism experiences.
Thailand Continues To Invest In Its Tourism Future
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| Suvarnabhumi Airport |
With world-famous destinations including Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai, Krabi, Pattaya, Koh Samui and countless cultural and natural attractions, Thailand continues to welcome millions of international visitors every year.
Enhanced airport facilities are expected to support the country's ambition to remain one of Asia's leading tourism destinations while delivering smoother passenger experiences and improved operational efficiency.
For travellers, the higher departure fee represents a modest increase in the overall cost of visiting Thailand, but one that authorities believe will contribute to better airports and stronger tourism infrastructure in the years ahead.
Airports of Thailand Public Company Limited
Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand Website: https://www.caat.or.th
Ministry of Transport Thailand Website: https://www.mot.go.th
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