Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport Suriya Jungrungreangkit has announced measures to address high airfare prices during the peak travel periods of December 27–28, 2024, and January 1–2, 2025. Due to increased air travel demand and reduced airline capacity since pre-COVID-19 levels, ticket prices have surged, directly impacting travelers.
To alleviate this, the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) is closely monitoring fares and collaborating with airlines to increase flight frequencies and deploy larger aircraft. Thai Airways and the Thai Airlines Association, which includes carriers such as Bangkok Airways, Thai AirAsia, Nok Air, and others, plan to introduce 247 additional flights and over 73,000 extra seats between December 26, 2024, and January 5, 2025. Special tickets are available for booking from November 18, 2024.
Airports and aviation authorities are extending operating hours and adjusting schedules to accommodate the surge in passengers, particularly during critical dates. Travelers are encouraged to book tickets directly with airlines to avoid overcharges by online agents, as CAAT enforces a price ceiling on fares. Complaints of overpricing can be reported via CAAT's portal.
Passengers are also advised to plan their journeys, allow extra time for airport procedures, and familiarize themselves with required travel documents and their rights in case of flight disruptions.