PATTAYA, Thailand – The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) has said it is closely monitoring domestic airfares during the Chinese New Year travel period, reporting that ticket prices on all routes remain within approved fare ceilings. The review covers flights scheduled from February 18 to 22, when passenger traffic has risen sharply.
While fares remain within regulatory limits, prices have trended upward, and many flights are fully booked due to strong demand. The increase is most evident on routes to and from southern destinations, including Phuket and Hat Yai.
CAAT has also examined airfare listings on online travel agent platforms after identifying cases where displayed prices appeared unusually high. The agency has coordinated with airlines to verify pricing systems with OTA providers and correct any discrepancies. Airlines have been instructed to report back promptly, and the matter has been shared with the Electronic Transactions Development Agency to support oversight of digital platforms.
Passengers are advised to compare fares across multiple booking channels and consider purchasing tickets directly through airline websites, where prices comply with approved ceilings. Travelers planning trips during peak periods are encouraged to book in advance to secure more favorable fares. Complaints related to airline services can be filed through CAAT’s online complaint portal at complaint.caat.or.th. (NNT)
