Thailand’s Airports Set to Reduce Fees, Aiming to Soar with Increased Flight Frequencies

In a strategic move to bolster aviation activities, Airports of Thailand (AOT), the entity overseeing major international airports in the country, has declared a temporary reduction in charges levied on airlines. This initiative is poised to stimulate both domestic and international flight operations and comes on the heels of discussions with the Bangkok Airline Operators Committee (BKK AOC).

According to Mr. Sirote Duangratana, Executive Vice President of AOT, the lowered charges encompass a spectrum of fees, including landing and take-off charges, aircraft parking fees, and jetbridge charges. The fee reduction is designed to span a duration of five months, extending until 31 March 2024. This forward-thinking approach aligns with AOT’s commitment to actively contribute to the anticipated surge in foreign visitors, propelled by the Thai government’s visa waiver policy for travelers from China, Kazakhstan, India, and Taiwan.

Mr. Sirote emphasized that this measure aims to create a conducive environment for airlines, fostering an environment where increased flight frequencies become the norm. The reduction in charges is expected to incentivize both domestic and international carriers to enhance their operations during the specified period.

As part of the strategic planning, AOT reveals that approximately 25% of the total flight slots across the six AOT-operated airports remain available for new flights. This especially holds true outside of the three peak periods from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., and 2 a.m. to 5 p.m. This strategic distribution aims to optimize airport resources and accommodate the influx of flights efficiently.

Assuring readiness for the expected surge in passenger and flight numbers, all AOT-operated airports have undergone meticulous preparations. The airport operator envisions that this initiative will lead to a remarkable 20% increase in both flight frequencies and passenger numbers, positioning Thailand as a thriving hub for air travel in the coming months.