The new Passenger Service Charge (PSC) rate for international departing passengers will apply at Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, Chiang Mai, Mae Fah Luang Chiang Rai, Phuket and Hat Yai airports.
Domestic departure fees will remain unchanged at B130 per passenger in line with government policy to support domestic tourism, AoT confirmed.
AoT President and CEO Paweena Jariyathitipong said the increase was approved by the Civil Aviation Board on Feb 20 and complies with international standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), including principles of transparency, cost-effectiveness and non-discrimination.
She explained that the revised fee structure was implemented under the Air Navigation Act B.E. 2479 (1936) and related amendments, with consultations held with airlines and other stakeholders before approval.
AoT stressed that the PSC is not a tax and is not intended to generate profit, but is used exclusively to support airport-related operations and infrastructure development.
Revenue from the higher charges will be used to improve airport facilities and passenger services across the six airports, including upgrades aimed at increasing convenience, safety and efficiency.
Projects cited by AoT include the Satellite Terminal 1 (SAT-1) development at Suvarnabhumi Airport, improvements to passenger facilities at Don Mueang Airport, and the rollout of the Common Use Passenger Processing System (CUPPS), designed to reduce waiting times and streamline check-in procedures.
AoT said surveys conducted among passengers and airlines found that most travellers considered the revised fee appropriate and that it was unlikely to affect travel decisions. Airlines also supported the adjustment, while recommending that service quality improvements continue alongside the fee increase.
Ms Paweena said the revised PSC rates would help support long-term investment, strengthen airport safety and service standards, and increase capacity to accommodate future passenger growth.
She added that the move forms part of broader efforts to position Thailand’s airports as sustainable regional aviation hubs and world-class gateways.