The Civil Aviation Board of Thailand (CAB), chaired by Pipat Ratchakitprakarn, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport, has resolved to increase the Passenger Service Charge (PSC) for international outbound passengers to 1,120 baht per person, up from the current rate of 730 baht per person. This applies to six airports managed by Airports of Thailand PCL (AOT): Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, Phuket, Chiang Mai, Mae Fah Luang–Chiang Rai, and Hat Yai.
AOT expects approximately 35 million international outbound passengers per year and anticipates that this adjustment will increase annual revenue by 10 billion baht. The change is expected to take effect in four months after the Minister of Transport signs the order.
Additionally, there is a resolution for Trang Airport – managed by the Department of Airports – to increase its international PSC from 400 baht per person to 425 baht per person.
The main objective of increasing the service charge rate is to invest in and develop aviation infrastructure. The key reasons are to raise funds for airport development, especially the construction of the new South Terminal at Suvarnabhumi Airport, which requires significant upgrades. This aims to create an independent revenue source since AOT needs to self-finance investments and cannot rely on the government budget.
At the same time, the increase will elevate Thailand’s status as an aviation hub, enhancing its competitive edge against major regional airports such as Singapore and Hong Kong in both passenger and air cargo transport.
Ms. Paweena Jariyathitipong, Director General of Airports of Thailand PCL (AOT), told “Kaohoon” that the adjustment of the Passenger Service Charge will enable AOT to enhance service efficiency and accommodate more passengers, supporting Thailand’s rise as a regional aviation hub within the next 2-3 years.
