Thailand set to raise airport tax for international flyers by 53%: Reports

Thailand’s Civil Aviation Board has reportedly approved a significant increase in the passenger service charge commonly known as the airport tax for outbound international travellers, according to local reports.

Transport Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, who chaired the board meeting, reportedly said the panel has agreed to Airports of Thailand Plc’s (AOT) proposal to raise the fee from 730 baht to 1,120 baht, marking a 53% jump. The revised charge will be included in ticket prices and is expected to come into force early next year, as per reports.

AOT, which operates six major airports Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, Phuket, Chiang Mai, Hat Yai and Chiang Rai will now gather public feedback before submitting detailed documents for final approval from the transport minister. Once cleared, the new rate must be announced at least four months before implementation.

According to local media, AOT has estimated that the higher airport tax could generate an additional 10 billion baht annually, based on an average flow of 35 million international passengers through its six airports.