As Thailand prepares for its annual Songkran holiday, the country’s airport operator is scaling up efforts to handle a significant increase in travel. Airports of Thailand (AOT) announced plans to expand flight operations at six major airports from April 11 to April 17, anticipating heightened demand during the traditional Thai New Year celebrations.
Passenger traffic is expected to reach nearly 80 million during this period, with more than 48 million international and over 30 million domestic travelers projected. The airports involved—Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Phuket, and Hat Yai—are working in coordination with transport and airport authorities to manage the influx, aiming to reduce congestion and enhance service quality through additional staffing and operational support.
Flight volumes are also set to rise. International flights are forecast to reach 267,603, marking a 9.1% increase compared to the same period last year. Domestic flights are expected to total 213,792, reflecting a 22.7% rise. To ease access for travelers, the Ministry of Transport will provide complimentary parking from April 12 to 16 at Suvarnabhumi (Zone C), Don Mueang (near the multi-story car park), Chiang Mai (Lan Chang lot), and Phuket (adjacent to the AOT office, beginning April 11).
Authorities are implementing several measures to improve the travel experience. These include increased cleaning of restrooms, full staffing at service counters, and greater availability of luggage carts. Automated services, such as self-check-in kiosks and baggage drop machines, will also be in place. Additionally, biometric registration is being used to accelerate security and check-in procedures. Passengers are reminded to confirm airline policies on carry-on items, including power banks.
Meanwhile, in Chiang Mai, officials have assessed damage following a recent earthquake, confirming that only three buildings were affected. One older condominium was temporarily closed due to safety concerns, while two other structures sustained minor, non-structural damage. The remainder of the city has resumed normal activities, with popular destinations, shopping areas, and restaurants continuing to attract both Thai and foreign tourists.
Chiang Mai is also preparing for its annual “Pi Mai Mueang” celebrations, a culturally significant part of the wider Songkran festivities. Authorities are promoting week-long traditional events across the city and expect strong public participation.
Senior officials from the Ministry of Transport and provincial administrators have overseen the preparations at the affected airports and in Chiang Mai.As Thailand prepares for its annual Songkran holiday, the country’s airport operator is scaling up efforts to handle a significant increase in travel. Airports of Thailand (AOT) announced plans to expand flight operations at six major airports from April 11 to April 17, anticipating heightened demand during the traditional Thai New Year celebrations.
Passenger traffic is expected to reach nearly 80 million during this period, with more than 48 million international and over 30 million domestic travelers projected. The airports involved—Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Phuket, and Hat Yai—are working in coordination with transport and airport authorities to manage the influx, aiming to reduce congestion and enhance service quality through additional staffing and operational support.
Flight volumes are also set to rise. International flights are forecast to reach 267,603, marking a 9.1% increase compared to the same period last year. Domestic flights are expected to total 213,792, reflecting a 22.7% rise. To ease access for travelers, the Ministry of Transport will provide complimentary parking from April 12 to 16 at Suvarnabhumi (Zone C), Don Mueang (near the multi-story car park), Chiang Mai (Lan Chang lot), and Phuket (adjacent to the AOT office, beginning April 11).
Authorities are implementing several measures to improve the travel experience. These include increased cleaning of restrooms, full staffing at service counters, and greater availability of luggage carts. Automated services, such as self-check-in kiosks and baggage drop machines, will also be in place. Additionally, biometric registration is being used to accelerate security and check-in procedures. Passengers are reminded to confirm airline policies on carry-on items, including power banks.
Meanwhile, in Chiang Mai, officials have assessed damage following a recent earthquake, confirming that only three buildings were affected. One older condominium was temporarily closed due to safety concerns, while two other structures sustained minor, non-structural damage. The remainder of the city has resumed normal activities, with popular destinations, shopping areas, and restaurants continuing to attract both Thai and foreign tourists.
Chiang Mai is also preparing for its annual “Pi Mai Mueang” celebrations, a culturally significant part of the wider Songkran festivities. Authorities are promoting week-long traditional events across the city and expect strong public participation.
Senior officials from the Ministry of Transport and provincial administrators have overseen the preparations at the affected airports and in Chiang Mai.
