TAT Partners with Civil Aviation to Boost Transit Passenger Tourism
The Tourism Authority of Thailand has signed a Letter of Intent with the Department of Civil Aviation and four partners to allow transit and transfer passengers to leave the airport and explore Thailand during layovers. The initiative aims to convert waiting time into economic opportunity by linking airports with cities, attractions and local businesses, boosting spending and distributing income nationwide. TAT will lead the Amazing Thailand Transfer Passenger Privilege project to design seamless travel experiences and support local enterprises.
The LOI, witnessed by senior officials including Deputy Prime Minister Pipat Ratchakitprakan, Transport Deputy Minister Apattapong Aphatprasit, Tourism and Sports Permanent Secretary Natthiya Thawiwong, Transport Permanent Secretary Piyapong Jiwattanakonphisal, TAT Governor Thapani Kiriaphibul and Civil Aviation Director‑General Donai Ruengson, seeks to turn waiting time between flights into an economic opportunity. It will allow passengers to leave the airport to sample Thai food, visit attractions, experience local culture and shop, thereby creating revenue for businesses along the airport‑city‑attraction‑supply chain. Under the Amazing Thailand Transfer Passenger Privilege project, TAT will coordinate with government agencies, airlines, airports, academia and the private sector to design convenient, safe routes and experience menus suited to layover times, ensure seamless journeys, and monitor the project’s impact on local enterprises such as restaurants, shops, hotels and community‑based tourism services.
