CAAT Explains Chiang Mai Flight Price Surge During Loy Krathong
CAAT has clarified that surging Bangkok–Chiang Mai airfares during the Loy Krathong festival (Nov 23–26) are driven by high demand and reduced flight capacity due to lantern-release safety measures, with many airlines already sold out. The regulator warns that inflated prices on third-party platforms reflect agent pricing algorithms, not airline fares, and urges travelers to book directly with carriers, verify schedules, and follow power-bank safety rules.
On November 12, 2026, the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) clarified reports of unusually high airfares on the Bangkok–Chiang Mai route during the Loy Krathong festival, November 23–26, 2026. Investigation found travel demand during this period is higher than normal, combined with flight schedule adjustments to accommodate lantern-release activities in Chiang Mai province, resulting in limited flights and seats — especially inbound flights on November 23–24 and return flights on November 25–26. Direct checks of airline websites show several carriers already have no tickets available for those dates. Regarding unusually high fares displayed on online sales channels, CAAT explained these are prices shown by ticket agents or platforms, which may stem from automated pricing mechanisms when remaining seats are few or nearly full, and are not the fares offered directly by airlines. Additionally, seat availability data on some platforms may not match actual sales status. CAAT therefore advises passengers to verify prices and seat status directly with airlines before purchasing to ensure they receive a valid ticket at a fare within the legal ceiling. CAAT also urges travelers during the festival to allow extra travel time and confirm flight schedules closely with airlines, as timetables may change to align with safety measures for lantern-release activities. Passengers should also pack according to aviation security rules, particularly carrying power banks in cabin baggage only — not in checked luggage — to reduce screening delays and facilitate travel during peak passenger volumes. CAAT will continue monitoring fare conditions to promote price transparency, fair competition, and passenger protection. If issues arise or rights are not upheld, complaints can be filed via CAAT's complaint system at https://complaint.caat.or.th.
