Thailand has officially begun enforcing stricter compensation rules for airline passengers affected by flight delays, cancellations, or extended tarmac time.
The new measures, effective since 20 May 2025, aim to provide consistent support and financial redress for air travellers, whether flying domestically or internationally.
Stronger Protections Under Civil Aviation Notification No. 101
Introduced by Thailand’s Civil Aviation Authority and approved by the Civil Aviation Board, the latest regulation—Civil Aviation Board Notification No. 101—requires airlines to offer timely aid to stranded passengers, particularly after they’ve checked in or arrived at the airport.
These rules cover a range of disruptions, from multi-hour delays to last-minute cancellations and even situations where passengers are denied boarding.
What International Travellers Can Expect
Under the new framework, international passengers experiencing flight delays longer than two hours must be provided with free meals and access to communication, such as phone calls or email.
If the delay extends past five hours, airlines are now obligated to offer THB 1,500 (approximately USD 45) in compensation. This can be delivered as cash, travel credit, loyalty points, or vouchers. For overnight delays, carriers must arrange hotel accommodation and ground transfers.
In cases of extreme delays—over 10 hours—compensation amounts vary based on the flight distance:
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THB 2,000 (USD 60) for flights under 1,500 km
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THB 3,500 (USD 105) for flights between 1,500 and 3,500 km
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THB 4,500 (USD 135) for flights exceeding 3,500 km
These payments must be processed within 14 days, and passengers who decide not to continue their trip are entitled to a full refund or equivalent travel options.
Cancellation and Denied Boarding Protocols
Travellers whose flights are cancelled or who are denied boarding will receive compensation equal to that of a 10-hour delay, unless they were informed at least seven days in advance.
If the notice period is shorter, airlines may still avoid penalties by arranging an alternative flight that departs within three hours, or if the cancellation was due to unavoidable events like natural disasters or air traffic restrictions.
Domestic Flight Compensation Also Upgraded
The revised policy offers new compensation amounts for domestic travel as well:
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THB 1,200 (USD 36) for delays exceeding five hours
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THB 1,500 (USD 45) for cancelled flights
These amounts may be offered in non-cash forms, such as travel vouchers or mileage, though force majeure events remain exempt.
Tarmac Delays: Passengers Can Now Disembark
In a key change, if a plane is stuck on the ground for more than three hours without taking off, passengers must be allowed to leave the aircraft—unless it poses safety or airspace concerns.
During such delays, airlines must ensure essential amenities such as air conditioning, restroom access, and emergency medical care are available onboard.
Thailand Aligns With Global Passenger Rights Standards
The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand has committed to working alongside airlines and the travelling public to ensure compliance with the new regulations. Officials say the updated rules reflect a broader effort to improve air travel standards and align with international best practices in passenger rights.
With the summer travel season underway, authorities are urging passengers to familiarise themselves with their rights and to report any violations to the relevant regulatory bodies.
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@the.laotian.times ✈️ Starting on 20 May, international and domestic passengers in #Thailand will receive improved services for flight delays, including cash, meals, and hotel stays. 👉🏻 Read more: https://laotiantimes.com/2025/05/13/thailand-to-enforce-new-air-passenger-protection-rules/ #laotiantimes #suvarnabhumiairport
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