M’sians Flying Out of Thailand to Pay More as the Country Just Approved a 53% Increase in Airport Tax

The Thai Civil Aviation Board has approved a whopping 53% increase in passenger service charge for travellers departing on international flights.

Transport Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, who chaired the meeting on Wednesday, said the board accepted Airports of Thailand Plc’s (AOT) request to increase the airport tax from THB730 to THB1,120 (~RM144).

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Thailand to increase passenger service charge by 53%

This charge, which is included in the ticket price, is expected to be implemented in early 2026. Meanwhile, the fee for domestic flights will remain at THB130 (~RM16.70).

AOT, which manages six major airports in the country, namely Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, Phuket, Chiang Mai, Hatyai, and Chiang Rai, will collect public feedback and submit the final details for ministerial approval before announcing the new rate four months before enforcement.

Earlier, AOT estimated that the higher airport tax could bring in an additional THB10 billion annually, based on roughly 35 million international passengers using its airports each year.

According to the Civil Aviation Board, the increased fee will help enhance airport services and safety, as the extra revenue will be invested in improving facilities for passenger convenience, as reported by The Bangkok Post.

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So, what do you guys think of the increased airport tax? Share your thoughts with us in the comments. 

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