BANGKOK – International travelers flying out of Thailand will soon pay more at the country’s biggest airports. Airports of Thailand (AOT) announced that it will increase the Passenger Service Charge (PSC) for outbound international passengers starting June 20, 2026. The fee will rise from 730 baht to 1,120 baht per person, which is a 53% increase, across all six AOT-run airports.
The Civil Aviation Board approved the change in principle on December 3, 2025, under the chairmanship of Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn. AOT President Paweena Jariyathitipong confirmed the update on Friday and said the domestic PSC will remain 130 baht per passenger.
Airports included and what the change covers
The new international departure fee applies to outbound flights from these AOT-managed airports:
- Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK), Bangkok’s main international airport
- Don Mueang International Airport (DMK) is a major base for low-cost airlines
- Phuket International Airport (HKT) is a key gateway for southern tourism
- Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX), the main airport in the North
- Hat Yai International Airport (HDY), an important regional hub in the South
- Chiang Rai International Airport (CEI), serving the northern border areas
AOT’s update mainly affects Thailand’s largest share of international departures. At the same time, it does not change fees at non-AOT airports, and it does not apply to arriving passengers. Also, because airlines usually include the PSC in the ticket price, many travelers will see it as a higher total fare, not as a separate line item.
Why AOT says the fee is going up
AOT says it needs the higher Passenger Service Charge to keep up with rising operating costs and to fund airport expansion and upgrades. The agency expects the change to bring in about 13 billion baht in fiscal year 2027. That money will support projects such as:
- Expansion linked to Suvarnabhumi’s SAT-1 terminal
- Faster passenger processing tools like CUPPS (Common Use Passenger Processing System)
- Broader improvements meant to ease congestion, improve safety, and raise comfort
AOT also points to future demand. With passenger totals projected to reach 130 to 135 million a year, the agency says it needs added funding to keep Thailand competitive as a regional aviation hub.
What it could mean for Thailand’s tourism
Thailand’s tourism industry could feel the change in different ways. On one hand, better airport facilities can improve the experience for visitors, which may support growth as international travel continues to recover.
On the other hand, the extra 390 baht per international departure may hit budget travelers hardest. It may also affect low-cost carriers, since small price changes can matter more on short routes and sale fares. For example, on a 4,000 to 5,000 baht ticket, the increase can add about 7 to 10% to the overall cost.
Some tourism watchers say this could weaken Thailand’s price edge against nearby alternatives like Vietnam, Indonesia, or Malaysia, especially for travelers who choose trips based on cost.
At the same time, Thailand’s tourism push for 2026 leans toward better value and quality, not just low prices. Still, critics say the timing could slow momentum while many travelers remain cost-conscious.
Critics question value for money
The announcement has sparked criticism, including from former Democrat Party deputy leader Samart Ratchapolsitte. He said the main concern is whether passengers will see clear service improvements that match the higher charge. In his view, travelers will want proof through shorter lines, better facilities, and smoother airport processes.
Online comments have echoed that frustration, with some users arguing the increase sends the wrong message to tourists. AOT, however, says the adjustment reflects real costs rather than a push for higher profits. The agency also notes that it shaped the final decision through public hearings and regulatory review.
With the June 20, 2026, start date getting closer, travelers should keep an eye on airline price updates. The change also keeps the bigger debate alive, how Thailand can pay for airport upgrades while keeping travel affordable for visitors.
