The Civil Aviation Board has approved a 53% hike in the passenger service charge, commonly known as airport tax, for outbound international travelers.
During Wednesday’s meeting, the board approved an application by Airports of Thailand Plc (AOT) to raise the fee from 730 baht to 1,120 baht for international flights, announced Transport Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, who chaired the meeting.
This passenger service charge is included in the ticket price when purchasing airport tickets and is expected to be implemented early next year. Meanwhile, the fee for domestic flights will remain unchanged at 130 baht.
AOT manages six major airports: Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, Phuket, Chiang Mai, Hat Yai, and Chiang Rai. The company will collect feedback, present details to seek approval from the transport minister, and will publicize the new rate at least four months prior to enforcement.
Earlier, AOT projected that the fee increase could generate approximately 10 billion baht in additional annual revenue, based on the typical flow of about 35 million international passengers through its airports each year.
The Civil Aviation Board stated that the fee hike would enhance airport services and safety, as the additional revenue would be invested in improved facilities for passenger convenience.