Thailand’s Airports Ready for New Year Surge: Increased Flights to Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai, Krabi, and Samui to Meet High Travel Demand – Everything You Need to Know About Added Flights and Discounted Fares

Published on December 28, 2025

As the 2026 New Year holiday approaches, air travel in Thailand is witnessing a significant uptick, with both domestic and international passenger numbers increasing steadily throughout December. To accommodate this surge, the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT), alongside the Ministry of Transport, has taken proactive steps to bolster travel capacity. The addition of flights, reductions in fares, and adjustments in operating hours at key airports are all part of the government’s strategy to ensure smooth operations for travelers.

Boom in Domestic and International Travel Across Thailand

From December 1 to December 21, Thailand’s airports handled approximately 479,979 passengers. Of these, 208,040 were domestic travelers, and 271,939 were international arrivals. This increase marks a notable recovery in the country’s air travel sector, approaching pre-pandemic figures. The peak travel period is expected to last from December 27 to January 4, with passenger volumes at their highest.

International routes, especially from China and India, have shown strong growth. Flights between Thailand and China saw over 19,850 passengers, nearing 75% of pre-COVID levels, while arrivals from India reached 10,616, surpassing pre-pandemic figures by around 10%.

Domestic Air Travel Strong with Key Airports Seeing Increased Traffic

Within Thailand, several major airports have witnessed a surge in domestic travel. Don Mueang Airport, one of the busiest in the country, is handling around 63,981 passengers daily. Other key airports like Suvarnabhumi and Chiang Mai are also operating at full capacity, with 36,499 and 20,000 passengers, respectively, arriving each day. Phuket Airport is similarly experiencing high passenger numbers.

Additional Flights and Discounted Fares for a Seamless Experience

To manage this surge in demand, the CAAT has arranged for 66 special flights, adding a total of 11,312 additional seats on domestic routes. These flights connect Bangkok to popular destinations like Krabi, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Khon Kaen, Trang, and Samui, ensuring that more travelers can reach their destinations without complications.

Along with the additional flights, Thai airlines have taken measures to make travel more affordable. Airfares have been reduced by up to 30%, with a total of 36,620 discounted seats made available on 202 flights across 11 routes. Key destinations, including Phuket, Hat Yai, and Nakhon Si Thammarat, are part of this promotional initiative.

Airport and Service Fee Adjustments to Facilitate Smooth Operations

To further support the increased number of passengers, various supporting agencies have introduced fee reductions and extended operating hours. Airports of Thailand has cut landing and parking charges by 30% for participating flights, while Aeronautical Radio of Thailand has lowered air navigation service fees for domestic special flights operating between December 27 and January 4. Additionally, the Department of Airports has extended operating hours across various airports to manage the increased traffic.

Traveler Tips for New Year’s Travel in Thailand

As the holiday season approaches, it is essential for travelers to plan ahead and stay flexible with their travel dates. Here are a few key tips to help make the most of your trip:

• Book flights early: With increased demand, it’s best to secure your seat well in advance.
• Check for discounted fares: Take advantage of discounted airfares on selected routes.
• Stay flexible: If possible, adjust your travel dates slightly to take advantage of lower fares or less crowded times.
• Use official airline websites: To ensure you get the best deals and avoid potential booking issues, always book directly from the airline’s website.
• Expect delays: With the surge in travel, be prepared for potential delays and give yourself plenty of time at the airport.

What Travelers Can Expect in Thailand’s Top Destinations

Several of Thailand’s iconic tourist hotspots are experiencing high demand as international tourists flock to the country for the holiday season. Bangkok, Phuket, and Chiang Mai are expected to be particularly busy, with Phuket seeing a noticeable increase in both domestic and international travelers.

Moreover, with the additional flights and expanded seat capacity, travelers can expect more convenient access to these famous destinations. Whether you’re heading to the vibrant streets of Bangkok, relaxing on the beaches of Phuket, or exploring the cultural treasures of Chiang Mai, planning ahead will make for a smoother experience.

Key Tips to Make the Most of Your Thai New Year Vacation

• Explore off-the-beaten-path destinations: Consider visiting Krabi, Samui, or Chiang Rai to avoid overcrowded tourist spots while still enjoying the beauty and culture of Thailand.
• Avoid peak travel times: If possible, try to travel earlier in the week or later in the season to avoid the busiest travel days.
• Take advantage of special deals: With discounted fares and special flights, travelers can enjoy a more affordable holiday season.

As Thailand gears up for the peak holiday season, travelers should expect a bustling but well-managed experience. With added flights, reduced fares, and enhanced airport services, the government is taking all necessary steps to ensure that holiday travel across the country is as seamless as possible.