Thailand Raises Departure Taxes to Boost Airport Growth

Thailand is set to join countries like Singapore, the United Kingdom, Japan, the United States, France, and Sweden as it raises its airport departure taxes by over fifty percent, starting June 20, 2026. This increase in the Passenger Service Charge (PSC) applies to international travelers and is aimed at strengthening Thailand’s airport infrastructure for future growth. With a surge in passenger traffic and the recovery of the tourism sector, the additional funds will be directed towards expanding terminal capacity, upgrading baggage systems, and improving passenger services, ensuring that Thai airports can accommodate rising demand and remain competitive on the global stage. In a move that is set to increase the cost of international travel, Thailand will raise its Passenger Service Charges (PSC) by over fifty percent starting on June 20, 2026. This fee hike, approved by Thailand’s Civil Aviation Board in December 2025, will apply to all international flights departing from major airports in the country. As Thailand joins a growing list of nations implementing similar charges, passengers will need to brace for higher costs. This article will explore the details of the fee increase, the countries already implementing similar measures, and what this means for travelers. What’s Changing in Thailand’s Airport Departure Charges? Thailand’s Airports of Thailand (AOT) has announced that international passengers departing from six major airports will face a substantial increase in their Passenger Service Charge (PSC). The fee, which previously stood at 730 baht (around Rs 2,133), will rise by over fifty percent to 1,120 baht (approximately Rs 3,273). The increase will apply to all international departures from the following airports: Suvarnabhumi Airport Don Mueang International Airport Phuket International Airport Chiang Mai International Airport Hat Yai International Airport Chiang Rai International Airport This adjustment, which will be automatically included in ticket prices at the time of booking, aims to fund infrastructure upgrades at these airports, supporting their growing passenger traffic. AOT has emphasized that the funds will be used to enhance airport capacity, modernize baggage handling systems, and improve check-in facilities, ensuring a better experience for international travelers.