PATTAYA, Thailand – The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) has clarified recent reports of rising airfares to Hat Yai, noting that the price increases reflect a surge in travel demand rather than unfair practices. The southern provinces are recovering from severe flooding, prompting residents, families, and relief personnel to urgently travel to affected areas.
According to CAAT, the spike in ticket purchases over the past several days has caused economy and standard seats to sell out rapidly. As a result, only higher-priced seats remain available, in line with the dynamic pricing mechanisms used by airlines worldwide. These pricing strategies are part of standard airline revenue management and reflect the availability of remaining seats rather than any attempt to exploit travelers.
CAAT Deputy Director-General Saran Benjanirat explained that many travelers are choosing air transport due to its efficiency and reliability, allowing them to reach Hat Yai quickly to care for family, property, or to assist with flood relief operations. The authority has coordinated with airlines to mitigate impacts on passengers and ensure that fares remain as fair as possible under the circumstances.
To maintain transparency, CAAT convened all airlines servicing southern routes to confirm their procedures. Airlines assured that any canceled flights entitle passengers to full refunds or rebooking options at no extra cost under Civil Aviation Authority Regulation No. 101. For flights that are not canceled, passengers wishing to change their travel dates may do so within the allotted timeframe without additional fees. Travelers can contact their airline directly or file complaints at complaint.caat.or.th if they feel their rights under the regulation have not been respected.
Following directives from the Prime Minister, CAAT reviewed complaints alleging airlines canceled flights to force passengers to purchase higher-priced tickets. The review of the past month’s records found no evidence of such practices. All airlines and airport inspections confirmed that passengers were not exploited, though CAAT will continue monitoring and coordinating with relevant agencies to ensure compliance and protection of travelers.
CAAT emphasized that it will closely track airfare trends, passenger volumes, and complaints, taking enforcement actions if any violations are discovered. Airlines have been urged to manage services efficiently to facilitate travel to southern Thailand during the ongoing recovery phase.
