Thailand to give 200,000 free domestic flights to boost tourism

In a bid to boost tourism, the Thai government has announced it will offer 200,000 free domestic round-trip flights to international visitors who book their flights to Thailand between September and November. Each free ticket includes 20 kg of checked baggage.

The initiative includes destinations such as Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang airports), Chiang Mai, Phuket, Hat Yai (Songkhla), Krabi, Khon Kaen, Nakhon Ratchasima, Hua Hin (Prachuap Khiri Khan), Surat Thani, Koh Samui, and Udon Thani (Rayong–Pattaya).

Six airlines are participating in the program: Thai Airways, Thai AirAsia, Bangkok Airways, Nok Air, Thai Lion Air, and Thai VietJet. Visitors can claim the free domestic flight by booking their international tickets through the airlines’ official websites or authorized online travel agencies. The scheme is primarily aimed at tourists who have not yet made flight arrangements, though final details remain subject to cabinet approval.

The government will subsidize up to 1,750 baht (approximately HK$423) for one-way tickets and 3,500 baht (around HK$845) for round-trip tickets, supporting an estimated 200,000 travelers. 

Officials anticipate that the initiative will generate up to 8.8 billion baht (about HK$2.13 billion) in tourism revenue.

Thailand’s Tourism and Sports Minister stated that the promotion is designed to encourage travelers to explore destinations beyond major tourist hotspots, thereby fostering more balanced regional tourism development.

The program is expected to launch in September, with full details to be announced in the near future.