Please come to Thailand, so we can charge you more

Thailand is sending mixed messages to potential visitors.

At a time when the Tourism Authority of Thailand is trying to boost dropping numbers, Airports of Thailand, the public authority managing the airports of Bangkok Don Mueang and Suvarnabhumi (above), Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Hat Yai and Phuket, has announced plans to increase passenger departure taxes.

The Civil Aviation Board has approved raising the fee from 730 baht (that is $32 in Australian dollars) to 1,120 baht ($49) per passenger, an increase of 50%.

Formal enforcement is expected around mid-2026, pending approval from the transport minister.

AOT president Pavina Jariyathitipong said studies indicate the higher charge will not affect travellers’ decision-making. 

I think she's wrong. 

Tourists hate being nickel and dimed - particularly at a time when rival destinations including Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos offer cheaper holidays than Thailand.

The additional fees will be used primarily for capital investment, most notably the South Terminal project at Suvarnabhumi, news hub Travel Mole reports.

The AOT president noted that more than 90% of airports worldwide collect PSC from both departing and transit passengers. 

Thailand remains among a small group that charges only departing travellers - but the timing seems wrong.