Thailand is moving towards two additional charges on air travel alongside the 1,120-baht international passenger service charge already collected by Airports of Thailand Public Company Limited (AOT). The three measures are at different stages: the higher passenger service charge is already in effect, while a 450-baht foreign tourist fee and a 1,000-baht departure tax remain proposals.
AOT raised its passenger service charge for departing international passengers from 730 baht to 1,120 baht per person on June 20, 2026. The airport operator said the increase was intended to support improvements in service standards.
The Ministry of Tourism and Sports is separately advancing a proposal to charge eligible foreign tourists arriving in Thailand by air 450 baht per person. An online consultation found that 80.5% of participants supported the draft measure, while 78.3% backed the proposed 450-baht rate. Revenue from the fee would be paid into the Tourism Promotion Fund, financing insurance for travellers and supporting restoration and sustainable development of tourist destinations.
A third measure is a proposed departure tax being considered by the Revenue Department under the Ministry of Finance. The department opened a public consultation on the principles of the Draft Departure Tax Act from September 30 to October 29. Unlike the proposed tourist fee, the departure tax would apply to travellers of all nationalities, including Thais and foreigners, with air travellers initially charged 1,000 baht each time they leave Thailand.
If both proposed measures ultimately take effect at the stated rates, an eligible foreign air traveller subject to all three charges could face a combined 2,570 baht. For travellers, this means that future trips to Thailand may involve higher total costs if the proposals are approved.
