Thailand Officially Hikes International Airport Tax by 53%: What Muslim Traveler Need to Know

Hey Muslim travelers! If Thailand is on your travel radar (or if you’re planning a trip there soon), there’s a major update you need to be aware of. The Thai government has officially approved a significant increase in the Passenger Service Charge (PSC), commonly known as the airport tax, for all international flights.

Also read: Thailand Offers Free Domestic Flights for Foreign Tourists – What Muslim Travellers Need to Know

This isn't a small adjustment; the hike is substantial and will directly impact your travel budget. We’ll break down the details, explain why this is happening, and tell you exactly when this new fee will kick in.

The Big Jump: 53% Increase for International Departures

Thailand’s airport tax for international routes is making a massive leap. The new rate is set at 1,120 Baht (approximately 32 USD or 44 CAD), soaring 53 percent from the previous rate of 730 Baht.

This means an additional 390 Baht will be added to your ticket price every time you depart internationally from Thailand’s major airports.

The Minister of Transport confirmed this decision following the approval of a request from Airports of Thailand (AOT), the state-owned company that manages the country's main aviation hubs.

Why the Sudden and Significant Increase?

While an increase of this magnitude might sting a little, the Airports of Thailand (AOT) and the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) have clear goals for the incoming revenue. The decision is part of a long-term strategic plan to maintain Thailand’s competitive edge in the global tourism and aviation sectors.

The funds generated are earmarked for two primary purposes:

1. Funding Crucial Infrastructure Projects

The primary reason for the increase is to generate capital for massive infrastructure upgrades. AOT, which oversees six key airports, expects this hike to bring in an estimated 10 billion Baht annually, based on handling an average of 35 million international passengers yearly.

This revenue will finance essential projects, most notably the expansion of Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK), which is Thailand’s busiest international gateway. This includes building a new South Passenger Terminal to boost capacity and reduce the significant congestion that passengers currently face. The goal is to offer a smoother travel experience for everyone.

2. Enhancing Service Quality and Safety

CAAT emphasized that the revised fees are designed to directly improve the quality of services and maintain high standards of flight safety across all major airports. Essentially, you are investing in a more efficient and comfortable airport experience for your future visits.

When and Where Does the New Fee Apply?

The new policy is expected to become effective starting early 2026. Since the fee is automatically incorporated into the price of your airline ticket, you won't be required to pay it separately at the airport counter.

Major International Airports Affected (AOT-managed):

The 1,120 Baht fee will apply to international departures from the following key airports:

• Suvarnabhumi (BKK)

• Don Mueang (DMK)

• Phuket (HKT)

• Krabi (KBV)

• Surat Thani (URT)

• Ubon Ratchathani (UBP)

• Khon Kaen (KKC)

• Nakhon Si Thammarat (NST)

• Phitsanulok (PHS)

What About Domestic Flights?

The increase isn't limited to international departures from major hubs. Smaller airports across the country will also see adjustments:

International Flights (Smaller Airports): The service charge will rise from 400 Baht to a maximum of 425 Baht.

Domestic Flights: The service charge will increase from 50 Baht to 75 Baht per passenger.

How Does This Impact Your Travel Plans?

For muslim travelers, the impact is straightforward: your total ticket cost for flying out of Thailand will be slightly higher starting in 2026. It’s important to budget for this increase when planning your future trips.

However, the bigger picture is positive. Thailand’s government is deeply committed to ensuring tourism safety and finding ways to attract pre-pandemic numbers (nearly 40 million visitors!). By investing heavily in infrastructure, they are aiming to make your arrival, departure, and transit experience seamless, competitive, and world-class.

The higher fee might be a small bump in your budget, but it promises significant long-term improvements in the efficiency and comfort of Thailand's airports.

Also read: 7 Muslim-Friendly Places in Thailand That Look Like Other Countries

Final Thoughts

The decision to raise the airport tax by 53 percent is a bold move by the Thai government, underscoring its commitment to modernizing its aviation infrastructure. While the price tag is increasing, it's all part of a larger plan to ensure Thailand's airports can comfortably handle the growing volume of global tourism.

As the 2026 deadline approaches, make sure you factor the new 1,120 Baht fee into your future international travel budgets. Happy travels, and enjoy those upgraded terminals!