Thailand to offer 200,000 free domestic flights to foreign tourists
Six Thai carriers join hands for three-month travel scheme
DUBAI – Thailand is preparing an ambitious plan to lure international visitors by giving away 200,000 free domestic flights this autumn.
The Tourism and Sports Ministry has proposed the “Buy International, Free Thailand Domestic Flights” campaign, designed to entice overseas travellers to explore the country beyond its most famous destinations. If approved by the Thai cabinet, the scheme will operate from September to November 2025, covering the low tourism season.
The initiative comes at a crucial time, as Thailand seeks to recover visitor numbers and revenues after years of pandemic setbacks and recent regional tensions. Officials estimate the campaign could generate THB 8.8 billion (€200 million) in revenue, with a government subsidy of THB 700 million (€16 million).
What’s on offer?
Eligible travellers booking flights to Thailand through airlines or online travel agencies will be able to claim one complimentary round-trip domestic flight. Each ticket, normally priced at THB 3,500 (€80), will include 20kg of checked baggage. Six Thai carriers are on board: Thai Airways, Thai AirAsia, Bangkok Airways, Nok Air, Thai Lion Air and Thai Vietjet.
The tickets will cover destinations across the country, from Unesco-recognised cultural cities to lesser-known islands and provinces. The ministry aims to distribute visitor traffic away from hotspots like Bangkok, Phuket and Chiang Mai, giving smaller communities a chance to benefit from international arrivals.
Thailand’s tourism goals
The campaign highlights Thailand’s attempts to restore its pre-pandemic tourism strength. In 2019, the country welcomed nearly 40 million foreign tourists. But in 2024, arrivals reached 35 million, and for 2025, the government has revised its goal to 33 million from the earlier target of 39 million.
As of mid-August, 20.8 million international visitors had entered Thailand, a 7 per cent year-on-year drop. Chinese tourists remain the largest group, with 2.9 million arrivals. Recent violent incidents in Bangkok and a border flare-up with Cambodia have dampened perceptions of safety, complicating recovery efforts.
When will the flights be available?
The proposed programme will run from 1 September to 30 November 2025, pending cabinet approval. Only travellers arriving by air will qualify, and bookings made before the launch date will not be eligible.
Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong said the initiative focuses on key destinations, including Unesco-designated cities and cultural hubs. Officials hope the free flights will attract at least 200,000 foreign visitors, spread tourism income more widely, and stimulate local economies.
Additional measures such as extended visa waivers, a digital nomad visa and proposals for casinos are also being explored to attract a broader mix of visitors.