Thailand Proposes to Offer Free Domestic Flights to 2 Lakh International Tourists To Boost Tourism

As per a report by The Nation Thailand, Thailand has introduced a massive travel initiative to revitalise its tourism sector with free domestic flights for 2 lakh international tourists. Backed by a THB 700 million budget, this scheme aims to direct travellers beyond major cities, boosting regional economies and supporting the 2025 “Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year” campaign.

Allocation to Fund Free Domestic Travel

Thailand's Tourism and Sports Ministry has proposed spending THB 700 million to offer free domestic flights to 2 lakh foreign tourists. Scheduled from August to December 2025, with travel between September and November, the scheme is expected to generate a minimum direct revenue of THB 8.81 billion and a total economic impact of THB 21.80 billion. Airlines involved include Thai Airways, Thai AirAsia, Nok Air, Thai Lion Air, Bangkok Airways, and Thai VietJet.

Subsidised Tickets and Added Benefits

Under the “Buy International, Free Thailand Domestic Flights” initiative, air tickets worth 1,750 baht one-way and 3,500 baht round-trip will be fully subsidised by the Thai government. Tourists booking an international flight to Thailand will be entitled to either 2 free domestic flights or a one-way journey, inclusive of 20 kg baggage allowance.

Read More: 25,000 Tickets per Minute: Railways Upgrading Passenger Reservation System!

Focus on Lesser-Visited Tourist Cities

This programme encourages international visitors to explore UNESCO-recognised cities and lesser-known destinations apart from iconic places like Bangkok or Phuket. It mirrors Japan’s successful strategy to distribute tourist footfall, enhancing infrastructure development in secondary locations and distributing revenue more evenly across the country.

Domestic Travel Scheme for Locals Also in Play

The Thai government is also advancing its “Half-Price Thailand Travel” campaign for domestic tourists. While bookings in primary cities are full, over 54,000 slots are still open in secondary areas. Officials aim to promote regional tourism equitably by directing travellers to underutilised destinations using leftover funds from the current programme.

Conclusion

Thailand’s bold move to fund domestic flights for foreign visitors underlines its commitment to inclusive tourism development. With an estimated ₹700 crore budget, the campaign not only enhances visitor experience but also strengthens local economies by driving travel into lesser-explored regions.

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