Thailand proposes to fund free domestic flights to international tourists

Thailand’s Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong has proposed a budget of THB 700 million to fund free domestic flights for international tourists. The scheme is introduced to draw at least 200,000 international tourists to explore destinations beyond major tourist cities, as per a report by The Nation Thailand.

The initiative will be carried out in partnership with six airlines, Thai AirAsia, Bangkok Airways, Nok Air, Thai Airways International, Thai Lion Air, and Thai VietJet. Under the plan, the government will subsidise domestic tickets priced at 1,750 baht for one-way and 3,500 baht for round trips.

According to the report, Sorawong said on Wednesday that the ministry will submit the proposal to the Cabinet next week. If approved, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) will implement the programme under the initiative “Buy International, Free Thailand Domestic Flights.” The project will run from August to December 2025, with travel set between September and November.

“The government will support domestic flight tickets priced at 1,750 baht per one-way trip (3,500 baht for round trips). The initiative aims to attract at least 200,000 foreign tourists, covering destinations across Thailand, with a particular focus on UNESCO-designated cities, popular tourist spots, and key destinations nationwide,” Sorawong said.

International travellers booking standard air tickets to Thailand through airline websites, multi-city options, or online travel agents will receive two free domestic flight tickets or a one-way option, along with a 20 kg luggage allowance.

The tourism ministry estimates direct revenue of at least THB 8.81 billion from visitor spending, with an overall economic impact projected at THB 21.80 billion.It also supports the government’s 2025 campaign, declared the “Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year.”

The scheme is modelled on Japan’s domestic flight promotion, introduced to shift traffic from major cities to regional destinations.

Sorawong also updated the progress of the “Half-Price Thailand Travel” programme for domestic tourists. He noted that bookings in major cities are already full, while around 54,075 slots remain available in secondary cities. He expects these to be fully booked by September.

The ministry will consult with TAT to review the results of the current scheme and consider a second phase, focusing more on secondary destinations and unused budget allocations.