Starting June 20, every international passenger departing Phuket International Airport will pay ฿1,120, up from the current rate. The increase is part of a nationwide adjustment announced by Airports of Thailand (AoT) affecting all six airports under its control.
The change applies to Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, Chiang Mai, Mae Fah Luang Chiang Rai, Phuket and Hat Yai. Domestic departure fees remain unchanged at ฿130 per passenger, a deliberate decision to support domestic tourism.
For Phuket property owners and agents focused on rental demand, second-home buyers and long-stay visitors, the question is whether the higher cost affects travel patterns or buyer confidence in Thailand as a destination.
What the fee increase covers
AoT President and CEO Paweena Jariyathitipong confirmed the increase was approved by the Civil Aviation Board on February 20. The adjustment follows international standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), which emphasises transparency, cost-effectiveness and non-discrimination in airport charges.
The Passenger Service Charge (PSC) is not a tax and is not designed to generate profit, AoT stated. Revenue is directed exclusively toward airport operations and infrastructure development.
Planned improvements include the Satellite Terminal 1 (SAT-1) development at Suvarnabhumi Airport, passenger facility upgrades at Don Mueang, and the rollout of the Common Use Passenger Processing System (CUPPS), designed to reduce check-in waiting times across all six airports.
Why this matters for Phuket property
Phuket’s real estate market is closely tied to accessibility, visitor experience and long-stay demand. Airport fees form part of the total cost of travel, and while ฿1,120 is a relatively modest increase in the context of international airfares, cumulative travel costs can influence destination choice for price-sensitive segments.
For property buyers considering Phuket for rental investment, the relevant question is not the fee itself but whether it affects tourism volume, repeat visits or the appeal of Thailand compared with competing resort markets in Southeast Asia.
AoT reported that surveys conducted among passengers and airlines found most travellers considered the revised fee appropriate and unlikely to affect travel decisions. Airlines supported the adjustment while recommending continued service quality improvements.
If those assessments hold, the impact on Phuket property demand is likely minimal. However, the fee increase arrives during a period when Thailand is competing with Malaysia, Vietnam and Indonesia for regional tourist share, and when Phuket rental property performance depends heavily on sustained international visitor arrivals.
What remains unchanged
Domestic departure fees remain at ฿130 per passenger, unchanged as part of government policy to support domestic tourism. This may encourage Thai nationals to travel within the country rather than internationally, which could support domestic tourism destinations but has limited direct relevance to Phuket’s predominantly international buyer and renter base.
The fee structure was implemented under the Air Navigation Act B.E. 2479 (1936) and related amendments. AoT stated it consulted airlines and other stakeholders before approval.
The broader infrastructure context
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.
For Phuket specifically, improved airport infrastructure could support higher passenger volumes and better travel experiences, both of which matter for villa rental demand and buyer confidence. However, the connection between the fee increase and tangible service improvements will take time to become visible.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the new Phuket airport departure fee take effect?
The increased Passenger Service Charge of ฿1,120 for international departures takes effect on June 20, 2025. It applies to all international passengers departing from Phuket International Airport.
Does the fee increase apply to domestic flights from Phuket?
No. Domestic departure fees remain unchanged at ฿130 per passenger in line with government policy to support domestic tourism. The increase applies only to international departures.
Is the departure fee a tax?
No. AoT stated that the Passenger Service Charge is not a tax and is not intended to generate profit. Revenue is used exclusively to support airport operations and infrastructure development.
Could the higher fee affect tourism demand in Phuket?
AoT reported that surveys found most travellers considered the revised fee appropriate and unlikely to affect travel decisions. Airlines also supported the adjustment. However, the cumulative cost of travel remains a factor in destination choice, particularly for price-sensitive segments.
What will the revenue be used for?
Revenue from the higher charges will fund airport facility improvements and passenger services across all six AoT airports, including terminal upgrades, safety improvements and systems designed to reduce waiting times and improve convenience.
Sources
- The Phuket News — Phuket airport departure fee rises to B1,120 — link
