Thailand to Increase International Departure Passenger Service Charge to $35

BANGKOK — Airports of Thailand (AOT) is planning to raise the international departure passenger service charge (PSC) to 1,120 baht per person by mid-2026, with the aim of strengthening long-term revenue and funding major airport expansion projects. The Civil Aviation Board has approved the fee increase in principle, raising the charge from 730 baht to 1,120 baht, pending final transport ministerial approval. AOT president Pavina Jariyathitipong noted that the increase is expected to generate about 13 billion baht annually from fiscal 2027, with funds primarily dedicated to investments like the South Terminal project at Suvarnabhumi Airport. The organization also plans to study PSC collection from transit passengers, bringing Thailand in line with international airport practices. The new fee will apply to AOT's six airports, including Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, Phuket, Hat Yai, Chiang Mai, and Chiang Rai, as part of the country's strategy to expand airport capacity to 120 million passengers annually and become a regional aviation hub.