Thailand is taking a bold step to make itself even more attractive to international travelers. The Tourism and Sports Ministry has proposed a THB 700 million scheme that will give foreign visitors free domestic flights—a move designed to spread tourism benefits beyond the country’s most crowded destinations.
Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong announced that the initiative, officially titled “Buy International, Free Thailand Domestic Flights”, is expected to benefit around 200,000 international tourists. It forms part of the government’s broader “Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year 2025” campaign, which focuses on boosting tourism revenue while promoting sustainable travel across the country.
How the Scheme Works
Under the plan, six domestic airlines will participate: Thai AirAsia, Bangkok Airways, Nok Air, Thai Airways International, Thai Lion Air, and Thai VietJet.
- Subsidy Rates: The government will subsidize THB 1,750 for one-way tickets and THB 3,500 for round-trip flights.
- What Travelers Get: Eligible tourists can enjoy two free one-way flights (or one round trip) within Thailand, along with a 20 kg baggage allowance.
- Eligibility: To qualify, travelers must book their international flights through airline websites, multi-city options, or online travel agents.
This means a visitor flying into Bangkok or Phuket could continue their journey to destinations like Chiang Mai, Krabi, or UNESCO-listed heritage sites—without paying extra for domestic air travel.
Timeline
- Program Window: August to December 2025
- Travel Period: September to November 2025
- Approval Stage: The proposal is awaiting Cabinet approval. Once cleared, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) will release detailed booking and redemption guidelines, such as whether discounts will be applied automatically or via special voucher codes.
Why It Matters
- Boost to Secondary Destinations: Thailand’s biggest challenge is overcrowding in hotspots like Bangkok, Phuket, and Chiang Mai. This program seeks to redirect travelers toward secondary cities and cultural attractions, ensuring more balanced growth across regions.
- Proven Model: Officials point to Japan’s successful airline subsidy program, which helped diversify travel patterns and strengthen regional tourism.
- Massive Economic Potential: Authorities estimate at least THB 8.81 billion in direct visitor spending, with the wider economic impact projected at THB 21.80 billion.
Destinations Travelers Could Explore with Free Flights
The scheme opens doors to parts of Thailand many tourists miss:
- Sukhothai – Thailand’s first capital, home to ancient ruins and UNESCO-listed historical parks.
- Chiang Rai – Famous for the White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) and the Golden Triangle near the Laos–Myanmar border.
- Trang & Satun – Southern provinces with serene islands and fewer crowds than Phuket or Krabi.
- Nakhon Si Thammarat – Rich in cultural heritage, temples, and pristine natural reserves.
- Buriram – Known for Khmer-era temples like Phanom Rung, and Thailand’s rising sports tourism hub.
- Nan & Phrae – Quiet northern provinces offering a mix of heritage towns, mountains, and authentic local culture.
- Udon Thani & Isaan region – Offbeat northeast Thailand, dotted with archaeological sites and vibrant food culture.
By covering the cost of flights, Thailand hopes tourists will venture into these regions—bringing economic opportunities to local communities while enjoying authentic travel experiences.
What Travelers Should Watch For
- Booking Rules: Travelers must book an international flight via official airline sites or partner OTAs.
- Covered Period: Only domestic flights taken between September and November 2025 will qualify.
- Redemption Details: It remains to be seen whether travelers will need to apply in advance or if free tickets will be seamlessly integrated at the time of booking.
If approved, this scheme could redefine how visitors experience Thailand—turning a trip to Bangkok or Phuket into a gateway to the country’s hidden gems, cultural heartlands, and natural wonders. For tourists, the message is clear: fly into Thailand, and Thailand will fly you further—on the house.
