Travellers flying out of Thailand on international routes will soon face higher airport charges, after authorities confirmed a significant increase in passenger service charges at six of the country’s busiest airports. The revised fees will apply only to outbound international flights and are scheduled to take effect from May 2026, pending final ministerial approval.
Under the new structure, departing passengers will pay 1,120 baht per trip, which works out to about S$45. This marks a sharp rise from the current 730 baht, or roughly S$29, representing an increase of more than 50 per cent. The adjustment applies exclusively to international departures and does not affect domestic flights within Thailand.
The airports impacted are Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang in Bangkok, as well as Phuket, Hat Yai, Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai. These airports collectively handle the bulk of Thailand’s international air traffic, including a large proportion of travellers from Singapore and other parts of Southeast Asia.
AUTHORITIES SAY PASSENGER NUMBERS UNLIKELY TO DROP
Despite concerns over rising travel costs, airport authorities believe the higher charge will not deter tourists or business travellers. According to officials, international studies have shown that passenger service charges play a relatively minor role in influencing travel decisions compared with air ticket prices, accommodation costs and overall holiday expenses.
Thailand’s aviation regulators have already approved the increase in principle, with final sign-off expected before the new rates are implemented. Importantly, the country continues to exempt inbound and transit passengers from such charges, a policy that officials say helps maintain Thailand’s competitiveness as a regional aviation hub.
For Singapore-based travellers, particularly those booking budget flights or short weekend getaways, the fee increase may be more noticeable. However, industry observers note that even with the hike, Thailand’s airport charges remain broadly in line with those imposed at major international airports across Asia.
WHERE THE EXTRA REVENUE WILL GO
The revised passenger service charge is expected to generate approximately 10 billion baht in additional annual revenue, equivalent to around S$402 million. Authorities have indicated that the funds will be channelled into upgrading airport infrastructure, with a focus on security systems, passenger amenities and essential utilities.
Planned improvements include better-maintained toilets, upgraded power supplies and more reliable air-conditioning systems, areas that frequently draw complaints from travellers during peak periods. Enhancing passenger comfort is seen as critical as Thailand prepares for increased tourist arrivals linked to major regional travel campaigns and long-term tourism growth.
A portion of the revenue will also be retained as accumulated profit to support future airport expansion projects and reduce reliance on borrowing. This, officials say, will help lower long-term financing costs and strengthen the financial sustainability of airport operations.
IMPACT ON TRAVELLERS AND REGIONAL TRAVEL TRENDS
As air travel demand across Asia continues to rebound, airport fees and travel-related charges are becoming a growing consideration for frequent flyers. For those flying from Singapore to Thailand for leisure, medical tourism or business, the added S$16 per trip may not be a deal-breaker, but it adds to the overall cost of travel.
With airlines, airports and tourism authorities all adjusting pricing structures, travellers are increasingly advised to factor in ancillary costs such as airport taxes, baggage fees and travel insurance when planning trips. While Thailand remains one of Southeast Asia’s most popular destinations, the latest move highlights how rising operational costs are gradually being passed on to passengers.
For now, domestic travellers and transit passengers remain unaffected, and the fee increase applies only to those departing Thailand on international flights from the six designated airports.