AEROTHAI Reduces Air Navigation Fees to Support Tourism in Thailand Over New Year 2026

Published on December 28, 2025

As part of a major effort aimed at promoting and boosting economic activities in light of the arrival of the New Year and in order to support and encourage air navigation services, it is announced that there will be a reduction of 30% in air navigation services charges by Aeronautical Radio of Thailand, or AEROTHAI, which will run from December 26, 2025, through to and including January 4, 2026, in order to support these airlines in reducing their costs and in response to increased air traffic as expected during this time.

The project is a part of a larger plan by the Ministry of Transport to provide safe and convenient travel and is in line with a national vision to provide a smooth traveling process in all transport sectors: road transport, water transport, rail transport, and air transport. This is just another move towards providing a festival atmosphere with a safe and seamless traveling experience to and from Thailand for millions of visitors and Thai citizens.

Supporting the Surge in Air Travel During the New Year Holidays

Thailand’s tourism sector is one of the cornerstones of its economy, with the New Year holiday season being a particularly high-demand period. According to AEROTHAI’s projections, air traffic during the New Year 2026 period will be significant, with a total of 30,420 flights expected, which averages out to about 2,760 flights per day. This represents a 3% increase from the same period in 2024, highlighting the growing travel demand as people seek to celebrate the holidays and explore new destinations.

In response to the anticipated jump in flight volumes, AEROTHAI has taken critical steps to ensure the safety and efficiency of air traffic management. The company has adjusted its staffing levels for air traffic controllers and engineers, enabling 24-hour operations throughout the holiday period. This preparedness is intended to minimize delays, optimize air traffic flow, and handle the increased volume of flights safely.

Why the Air Navigation Fee Reduction Matters for Airlines and Travelers

The decision to cut air navigation service charges is expected to have a far-reaching impact on both airlines and tourists. For airlines, this reduction in fees will significantly lower their operating costs, which could result in cheaper tickets for passengers. Airlines operating additional flights or those with special offers, such as discounted fare caps, stand to benefit the most from this move. These incentives make travel more affordable, attracting more tourists to Thailand and ensuring that the nation remains a competitive destination for both domestic and international travelers.

From the tourist’s perspective, this fee reduction could lead to a wider range of affordable flight options, which will help meet the demand for domestic and international travel. This is especially beneficial for budget-conscious travelers who may be looking for more cost-effective ways to visit Thailand’s famous tourist destinations, including Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai, and Koh Samui. The reduction in costs also supports a more sustainable tourism model by encouraging more people to travel within the country, thereby supporting local economies and businesses.

Enhancing the Overall Travel Experience During the Holidays

In addition to the fee reduction, AEROTHAI has taken several steps to ensure a smooth and safe travel experience for passengers. The company has bolstered staffing at key air traffic control centers and ensured that engineers are available to handle any technical issues that may arise. The aim is to maintain high levels of air safety while ensuring that passengers experience minimal delays. AEROTHAI’s operational adjustments will also support extended airport hours, which will accommodate the higher number of flights expected during the holiday rush.

Furthermore, the company has enhanced aviation information services, ensuring that both airlines and passengers are well-informed about flight statuses and any changes in air traffic conditions. These efforts are designed to make the New Year holiday period as seamless as possible, reducing travel stress and enabling travelers to enjoy their vacations without the typical air travel hassles.

Thailand’s Transportation System Prepares for a Nationwide Surge

The Transport Ministry’s campaign theme for the New Year period, “A festival of happiness nationwide, convenient and safe travel,” encapsulates the government’s commitment to ensuring that all modes of transportation in Thailand function optimally during this peak period. AEROTHAI’s efforts to manage air traffic will be part of a broader nationwide initiative to ensure smooth travel, including measures to manage road traffic, support rail systems, and enhance water transport services.

By improving the efficiency of travel networks across the board, the Thai government aims to create a positive experience for both local residents and international tourists, positioning Thailand as a top destination for holidays and vacations. The reduction in air navigation fees is a key part of these efforts, making air travel more attractive and accessible to travelers, while simultaneously boosting the tourism sector and helping to support the local economy during the high season.

Impact on Thailand’s Tourism Economy

The New Year’s holiday period is critical for the tourism economy in Thailand, one of Southeast Asia’s most popular destinations. The fee reductions implemented by AEROTHAI are expected to increase the flow of tourists, making Thailand more attractive for holidaymakers, particularly those looking for affordable travel options. This move not only benefits tourists but also strengthens the local economy by supporting businesses in the tourism sector, from hotels and restaurants to retail shops and cultural attractions.

Moreover, the strategic efforts of AEROTHAI to boost air traffic capacity and ensure safe travel will allow Thailand to handle a greater number of visitors without compromising safety or operational efficiency. This improvement in tourism infrastructure is critical for maintaining Thailand’s position as one of the leading travel destinations in the region, fostering long-term growth in the country’s tourism sector.

Looking Ahead: A Sustainable Future for Thai Tourism

With Thailand approaching the holiday festivities of the New Year, the servitude of Thailand’s reduced air navigation fees by AEROTHAI is a big step towards ensuring the country is on track and competitive on the international tourism market platform. This is considering the operation synergies and the effort by Thailand to retain its international standard transportation infrastructure.

For the traveler, this reduction in fees is a chance to experience the vast culture, history, and beauty of Thailand without paying a high price. This also ensures that the tourism industry in Thailand continues to thrive.