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Airport fees rise by 53%: Thai airports plan to invest millions!
The Airports of Thailand will increase passenger fees for international flights by 53% in 2026 to finance infrastructure projects.
Airport fees rise by 53%: Thai airports plan to invest millions!
In Thailand, aviation and airports are facing significant change. TTR Weekly reports that Thailand's airports will significantly increase passenger fees for international flights from mid-2026. This affects six major airports: Bangkok Suvarnabhumi, Bangkok Don Mueang, Phuket, Chiang Mai, Hat Yai and Chiang Rai.
Starting May 1, 2026, the fee will increase from the current THB 730 to THB 1,120, a whopping 53% increase. This measure aims to generate estimated revenue of approximately THB 10 billion. These funds are earmarked for major expansion projects at Bangkok and Phuket airports, notably an impressive expansion project at Suvarnabhumi Airport.
Background of the increase
A look at the plans of the Airports of Thailand (AOT) shows that they want to develop the new south terminal at Suvarnabhumi Airport for a whopping THB 200 billion. The aim is to increase capacity to up to 120 million passengers per year. The Thai government has made it clear that it wants to encourage the AOT to finance these expansions through its own revenue, rather than relying on government loans or tax money.
Fortunately, the passenger fee for domestic flights at AOT airports remains unchanged at THB 130. Additionally, the Department of Airports (DOA) has received approval to increase fees at smaller regional airports from THB 50 to THB 75. Again, passenger fees are set at THB 425 for international flights and THB 75 for domestic flights.
A look at the regional airports
What is also particularly interesting is what is happening at regional airports such as Krabi, Surat Thani and Khon Kaen, where small fee increases are also being implemented. For the Navy-operated U-Tapao Airport, the maximum passenger fee is THB 400 for international flights and THB 50 for domestic flights.
The increased passenger fee will be a challenge for many travelers, but the planned investments in infrastructure could benefit both passengers and the broader economy in the long term. It remains to be seen how the public will react to these changes and whether expectations of improving travel experiences can be met.