Thailand Revolutionizes Airport Experience With New Fifty Three Percent Surge In Passenger Service Charge Set To Enhance Facilities And Boost International Travel Convenience

Published on December 13, 2025

Thailand is set to increase its airport tax by fifty-three percent, a move expected to generate ten billion baht annually. This significant rise in the passenger service charge aims to support essential improvements and modernizations at major airports like Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, and Phuket. With growing passenger numbers and a continuous need for infrastructure development, the additional revenue will be used to enhance facilities, passenger amenities, and safety standards, ensuring Thailand’s airports remain competitive and capable of meeting the demands of international travellers.

Thailand is set to introduce a significant change for international travellers, including increasing airport taxes for those passing through major airports like Bangkok and Phuket. The Civil Aviation Board has approved a 53% increase in the passenger service charge (PSC), also known as the airport tax, which applies to all outbound international passengers. This adjustment comes as part of ongoing efforts to upgrade airport infrastructure and handle the rising number of visitors, particularly as Thailand continues to attract a growing influx of leisure and business travellers from countries like India.

Increase in Passenger Service Charge

The proposal, put forward by Airports of Thailand Public Company Limited (AOT), aims to raise the PSC for international departures from 730 baht (approximately Rs 2100) to 1,120 baht (around Rs 3200). AOT manages six major airports across the country, including Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, Phuket, Chiang Mai, Hat Yai, and Chiang Rai. Once the new fee structure is implemented, these airports will all adopt the revised charge. However, the PSC for domestic flights will remain the same at 130 baht (Rs 370).

What is the Passenger Service Charge?

The PSC is a compulsory airport fee levied on passengers to fund the maintenance, operation, and enhancement of airport facilities. It contributes to maintaining essential services such as terminal upkeep, safety improvements, passenger amenities, and other infrastructure projects that ensure smooth airport operations. The increase in this charge is designed to help Thailand’s airports cope with the growing volume of passengers and the need for constant upgrades.

How Will Travellers Pay the New Fee?

Travellers will not need to pay this fee separately at the airport. Instead, the PSC will automatically be incorporated into the total ticket price when booking flights. This seamless integration ensures that passengers do not face additional steps at the airport, streamlining the entire process and minimizing any inconvenience.

Timeline for the New Rate

The increased airport tax is expected to take effect early next year. However, before the final implementation, AOT will gather additional feedback, submit detailed justifications to the transport minister, and provide a public announcement at least four months before the new rate is enforced. This timeline will allow both airlines and passengers to adjust to the new fee structure.

Why the Increase in the Airport Tax?

The new fee is projected to generate an additional 10 billion baht annually, based on an estimated 35 million international passengers travelling through AOT-managed airports every year. The funds generated by the fee hike will be allocated to improving passenger convenience, enhancing services, and bolstering safety standards across Thailand’s airports. This financial boost is seen as essential for maintaining the country’s competitive edge in the aviation sector as it continues to expand and attract more international visitors.

The rise in the passenger service charge aligns with the broader goal of upgrading Thailand’s airport infrastructure to accommodate the increasing demands of international travel. This includes upgrading terminals, enhancing passenger facilities, and ensuring that safety and security measures meet the growing expectations of both airlines and passengers. The improvements are crucial as Thailand strives to maintain its position as a key tourism hub in the region, especially in light of a record number of visitors arriving from around the world.

As Thailand’s aviation sector continues to grow, the government’s decision to increase the airport tax reflects the need for continuous investment in airport infrastructure to keep pace with increasing demand. The new passenger service charge will not only help generate crucial revenue but also support the country’s long-term goal of maintaining world-class facilities and services for international travellers. With the increase set to take effect next year, passengers can expect a smoother, more efficient travel experience as Thailand’s airports continue to improve and expand.