Bangkok: The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) has announced a strategic partnership with six airlines to reduce airfare prices by 15-30% for the upcoming Songkran festival in 2026. This initiative aims to alleviate the financial burden on travelers amidst the ongoing Middle East conflict, which has disrupted air travel and increased ticket prices.
According to Thai News Agency, CAAT is closely monitoring the situation in the Middle East, which has led to restrictions on many flight routes, particularly those involving layovers. While direct flights between Thailand and Europe remain operational, passengers are increasingly opting for direct routes due to disruptions in the Middle East, resulting in higher prices for these tickets. As an alternative, travelers may consider routes through other countries, such as China, although these may involve longer travel times.
Middle Eastern airlines are gradually resuming operations, but many restrictions still apply. CAAT advises passengers traveling throu
gh the region to remain vigilant about flight statuses and conditions. Air Chief Marshal Manat Chuwanaprayoon, Director of CAAT, emphasized the importance of monitoring airfare prices during peak travel seasons and highlighted the collaboration with airlines to provide fair travel arrangements for the Songkran festival.
For the domestic Songkran travel period from April 10-15, 2026, CAAT has teamed up with Thai Airways, Bangkok Airways, Thai AirAsia, Nok Air, Thai Lion Air, and Thai Vietjet. These airlines have reduced fares on 11 high-demand routes, including Bangkok to Chiang Mai, Phuket, Hat Yai, and more, covering 191 flights and 29,685 seats.
To accommodate increased demand, Bangkok Airways has added 24 extra flights on the Samui route, providing an additional 1,680 seats. Thai Airways has also upgraded certain flights to larger aircraft, such as the Airbus A330-300 and Boeing 787-8, adding 1,428 seats for the holiday season.
A CAAT price check revealed that low-priced tickets were nearly sold out due
to high demand during the festival, with prices expected to drop after the peak period. This fare reduction initiative reflects the cooperation of all aviation industry sectors, ensuring convenient and safe travel for the public during the festival.
Despite fluctuations in jet fuel prices due to the Middle East conflict, CAAT remains committed to implementing these cost-reduction measures as planned.