AOT Confirms Passenger Service Charge Increase Aligns with Actual Costs, Not for Profit

The Airports of Thailand Public Company Limited (AOT) confirmed the passenger service charge (PSC) increase for international flights from 730 baht to 1,120 baht per person. The rate adjustment primarily applies to foreign travelers, with domestic flights remaining unchanged. Addressing political opposition claiming the increase would burden passengers and damage tourism, AOT President Paveena Jiriyathitipong emphasized that the increase is not profit-driven but designed to ensure airport management stability and long-term safety standards. The new PSC will be implemented across six airports managed by AOT, including Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, Phuket, Hat Yai, Chiang Mai, and Chiang Rai, with projected additional revenue exceeding 10 billion baht. Paveena explained that the increased revenue will be reinvested directly into passenger facilities, both visible and invisible infrastructure, including restrooms, electrical systems, air conditioning, building structures, and safety systems. She also noted that Thailand is one of the few countries collecting PSC only from departing passengers, and international studies confirm that PSC minimally impacts tourist travel decisions.