PATTAYA, Thailand – Thailand’s aviation regulator is closely monitoring the evolving situation in the Middle East, as ongoing tensions continue to disrupt global flight routes and reshape travel patterns—especially for passengers relying on transit through the region.
The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) said direct flights between Thailand and Europe are continuing as normal, with airlines adjusting flight paths where necessary. However, travelers who previously depended on Middle Eastern transit hubs are increasingly shifting to direct services, putting pressure on seat availability—particularly in lower fare categories.
Passengers are being advised to consider alternative transit routes through other regions, which may offer lower fares but often come with longer travel times. While some Middle Eastern carriers have resumed services, capacity remains limited on several routes.
At the same time, preparations are underway for the busy Songkran travel period from April 10–15. CAAT has coordinated with six airlines—Thai Airways, Bangkok Airways, Thai AirAsia, Nok Air, Thai Lion Air, and Thai VietJet—to help manage demand and ease costs.
Under the plan, airlines are offering airfare reductions of 15–30% across 11 domestic routes, including key links such as Bangkok–Chiang Mai, Bangkok–Phuket, and Bangkok–Samui. A total of 191 flights are included, with some routes upgraded to larger aircraft and additional services added, bringing total seat capacity to nearly 30,000.
Despite these efforts, demand remains strong. CAAT acknowledged that lower-priced tickets for the Songkran period have nearly sold out, though fares are expected to ease toward the end of April as travel demand begins to decline.
The regulator also pointed to rising operational pressures, noting that jet fuel prices have surged by more than 100% since February 2026 due to the Middle East conflict. Even so, authorities say the temporary fare reductions for the holiday period will remain in place.
CAAT said the coordinated approach is aimed at ensuring travel remains accessible, affordable, and safe during one of Thailand’s busiest travel seasons, urging passengers to plan ahead and book early. (PRD)
However, not all travelers are convinced.
Some passengers have voiced frustration online, questioning the effectiveness of the measures and pointing out that airfare reductions are being implemented by airlines rather than the regulator itself. Others say ticket prices remain high on popular routes such as Bangkok to Chiang Mai, with budget carriers sometimes pricing tickets close to full-service airlines.
International travelers are also feeling the strain. Some have reported that avoiding Middle East transit hubs has significantly increased travel costs, with fares from the UK to Thailand doubling or even tripling in some cases.
While officials emphasize coordination and support measures, these reactions highlight a growing gap between policy intentions and real-world travel costs—especially for those trying to navigate an increasingly volatile global aviation landscape.
