Thailand is set to increase passenger service charges at six regional airports starting this October to directly fund the rollout of advanced digital processing systems aimed at reducing congestion, improving check-in efficiency, and delivering a faster, more seamless travel experience across the country’s growing aviation network.

Thailand’s aviation authorities will implement a significant increase in passenger service charges (PSC) at six regional airports starting October 1. This move marks a crucial step in the country’s broader effort to modernize its airport infrastructure and align services with international standards.

Passengers departing on domestic flights from the six affected airports will soon pay 75 baht per person, reflecting a rise from the earlier 50 baht rate. For international departures, the passenger service charge will increase to 425 baht, up from 400 baht. These revised fees will apply to all travelers beginning their journeys on or after the official rollout date.

The revised passenger service charges will take effect at six regional airports—Ubon Ratchathani, Khon Kaen, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phitsanulok, along with Krabi and Surat Thani—all of which operate under the national airport authority and have recently been upgraded with modern aviation technology.

The increased charges are directly tied to the rollout of Common Use Passenger Processing Systems (CUPPS) across these six airports. CUPPS is a suite of technologies designed to improve airport operations, streamline passenger processing, and boost the efficiency of airline and airport coordination.

This system incorporates three main components:

Common Use Terminal Equipment (CUTE) enables multiple airlines to utilize the same check-in desks and boarding gates, maximizing terminal space and improving operational flexibility.

Common Use Self-Service (CUSS) allows travelers to complete their check-in at automated kiosks without the need for airport staff, helping to shorten queues and ease terminal crowding.

• Common Use Bag Drop (CUBD) enables travelers to drop off their luggage at shared self-service counters, making the baggage handling process faster and more streamlined.

These enhancements aim to improve the travel experience by reducing bottlenecks, accelerating passenger throughput, and ensuring that even regional airports can offer services that rival larger international terminals.

According to aviation authorities, the decision to raise the PSC was based on the actual cost of maintaining these new systems. By updating the fee structure, officials intend to recover investment in the infrastructure upgrades and sustain the technology over the long term. The charges are categorized as aeronautical fees, meaning they are directly related to services provided for aircraft and passengers, and are regulated under national aviation laws.

The proposal to revise the rates underwent a thorough review and gained final approval before being scheduled for rollout. All six airports have completed the necessary technical upgrades and are fully equipped to operate with CUPPS technology by the implementation date.

Authorities emphasized that while the updated fees may increase travel costs slightly, they serve a larger goal of improving operational efficiency, safety, and passenger convenience. These improvements will help Thailand remain competitive as a travel and tourism hub, especially as demand for regional and international flights continues to rebound.

By investing in digital infrastructure, the airports aim to minimize delays, shorten check-in queues, and reduce manual interventions. The CUPPS system also allows for more flexible airline operations, especially during peak travel periods or unforeseen disruptions, by enabling multiple carriers to use shared counters and equipment interchangeably.

In the long run, these technology-driven enhancements are expected to provide a smoother and more pleasant experience for travelers. They also reduce the burden on airport staff, allowing them to focus more on customer support and service rather than manual processing tasks.

These six airports serve as vital regional gateways, connecting millions of domestic and international passengers to tourist destinations, business centers, and provincial capitals. With the rising number of passengers each year, the need for efficient and modern processing systems has become urgent.

The fee adjustment also reflects a growing trend in the global aviation industry, where many airports are turning to smart infrastructure and digital systems to handle increasing passenger volumes without compromising on service quality. The new PSC rates in Thailand are still competitive compared to many international benchmarks and are intended to ensure financial sustainability without imposing excessive burdens on travelers.

Travelers who plan to depart from any of the six affected airports are advised to include the new charges in their budget and booking considerations. The changes will automatically be included in ticket prices purchased after the official implementation date. Those who booked prior to the announcement will not be required to pay the difference, provided their travel date is before October 1.

Authorities plan to continue monitoring the system performance and passenger feedback during the early months of implementation. If successful, this model may be extended to additional airports across the country, especially those that are experiencing growth in passenger traffic or are being considered for future international service expansion.

Thailand will raise airport service charges at six regional terminals starting this October to fund advanced digital systems that streamline check-in, reduce congestion, and enhance the overall passenger experience.

In summary, the increase in PSC at six regional airports represents a strategic investment in the country’s aviation infrastructure. While the fee hike may appear modest, it forms a critical foundation for delivering world-class service levels and supporting long-term airport sustainability in a fast-changing travel environment. By embracing shared digital systems and smart processing tools, Thailand is positioning its regional airports to handle rising demand while offering travelers greater speed, convenience, and reliability in their journey.

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