AoT President Paweena Jariyathitipong said the service charge would rise from B730 to B1,120. The charge on domestic flights would remain the same, reports the Bangkok Post.
The rise was planned for Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, Phuket, Hat Yai, Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai airports.
According to Ms Paweena, the increase would raise an extra B10 billion a year and the money would be used to improve security and facilities at the airports including toilets and power and air-conditioning systems ‒ which she says would benefit travellers.
AoT would keep part of the additional revenue as accumulated profit, which would help fund new projects and limit the burden of loan interest.
Thailand is one of only a handful of countries with a PSC only on outbound flights. Most countries charge outbound, inbound and transit travellers, according to Ms Paweena.
She said international studies found that a PSC had no impact on tourists’ travel decisions.
“The main factors are air ticket prices and overall travel expenses,” she said.
The Civil Aviation Board has approved the service charge increase in principle but it has yet to receive final approval from the transport minister, who is ex-officio board chairman.
The AOT president expects approval in May, after the general election.