Thailand Considers Offering Free Domestic Flights to Foreign Tourists to Boost Tourism
The government of Thailand is evaluating an ambitious initiative to attract more international visitors during the low season: offering free domestic flights to travelers coming into the country. The measure aims not only to increase arrivals but also to encourage tourists to explore regions beyond the country’s most popular destinations.
The Ministry of Tourism and Sports has proposed granting 200,000 international tourists a free round-trip domestic ticket, including 20 kilograms of checked luggage. The program, called “Buy International, Free Thailand Domestic Flights”, is still awaiting cabinet approval.
If approved, the campaign would run from September to November, with a government investment of 700 million baht (US$21.6 million) to subsidize tickets that normally cost around 3,500 baht (US$108). Authorities estimate the plan could generate up to 8.8 billion baht (US$272 million) in tourism revenue.
International passengers would be able to claim their free flights when booking tickets to Thailand directly with airlines or through online travel agencies. Six carriers are expected to participate in the program: Thai Airways, Thai AirAsia, Bangkok Airways, Nok Air, Thai Lion Air, and Thai Vietjet.
Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong explained that the campaign will focus on key destinations across the country, including UNESCO-designated cities, popular tourist hotspots, and priority regions. However, some hotel industry leaders warned that not all provinces will benefit equally, particularly in the northeast, though Buri Ram and Ubon Ratchathani were highlighted as exceptions with strong tourism potential.
Experts recommend pairing the free flights with marketing campaigns and local experiences, such as promoting Buri Ram as a hub for sports tourism or showcasing the attractions of the Mekong River in Ubon Ratchathani. They also urged the government to strengthen tourist safety measures and clearly communicate safe zones, especially amid tensions along the Cambodia border.
Thailand is working to recover its pre-pandemic tourism levels. In 2024, the country welcomed 35 million foreign visitors, while the goal for 2025 is 40 million. However, by mid-August, arrivals totaled 20.8 million, representing a 7% drop compared to the same period last year. China remains Thailand’s largest source market, with 2.9 million visitors so far this year.
