Overview of Domestic Airlines in Thailand
Thailand's domestic flight network is well-developed, with quick connections from Bangkok to popular destinations like Phuket, Chiang Mai, and Koh Samui. Major carriers include full-service and low-cost airlines, offering significantly different price points. Below is a detailed guide for booking flights.
Compare Major Airlines
1. Thai Airways International
Position: Full-service airline | Strengths: Excellent service, quality meals, generous baggage allowance
Ideal for: Business travelers and tourists seeking comfort. Higher price includes checked baggage and meals.
2. AirAsia
Segment: Budget Airlines | Advantages: Low fares, extensive route network, frequent departures
Ideal for budget-conscious travelers. Base fares exclude baggage and meals, which must be purchased separately. Book in advance for better rates.
3. Nok Air
Position: Mid-range airline | Advantages: Cost-effective, moderate service
Best for: Budget-conscious travelers seeking comfort. Base fare includes 15kg checked baggage—better value than AirAsia.
4. Thai Lion Air
Position: Low-cost carrier | Advantages: Low prices, new aircraft
Ideal for: Budget-conscious travelers. Like AirAsia, base fares exclude baggage and meals.
Popular Route Price Reference
| Route | Flight Time | Budget airline prices | Full-service pricing |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bangkok - Phuket | 1 hours 20 minutes | 800-1500 THB | 2000-3500 THB |
| Bangkok - Chiang Mai | 1 hours 10 minutes | 600-1200 THB | 1500-2500 THB |
| Bangkok–Samui | 1 hours | 1500-2500 THB | 3000-5000 THB |
| Bangkok - Krabi | 1 hours 15 minutes | 700-1300 THB | 1800-3000 THB |
Baggage Allowance Policy
Low-cost carriers (AirAsia, Lion Air)
- Carry-on: 7 kg (max dimensions 56x36x23cm)
- Checked Baggage: Available for an additional fee. 15kg approx. 300-500 THB; 20kg approx. 400-600 THB
- Tip: Purchase extra baggage allowance online in advance; prices at the airport are doubled.
Mid-range airline (Nok Air)
- Carry-on: 7kg
- Checked Baggage: Base fare includes 15kg
- Overweight fee: approximately 100-150 THB per kg
Full-service airline (Thai Airways)
- Carry-on: 7kg
- Checked Baggage: Economy 20-30 kg, Business 40 kg
- Overweight fee: approximately 150-200 THB per kg
Booking Tips
- Book early: Best prices when booking 2-4 weeks in advance; last-minute tickets cost double.
- Price comparison platforms: Skyscanner, Kayak, and Google Flights compare prices across airlines.
- Book on the official website: Exclusive deals and more flexible cancellation policies may be available.
- Avoid peak times: Prices are higher on Fridays, Sundays, and holidays; lower from Tuesday to Thursday.
- Bundle & Save: Round-trip tickets are typically 10-20% cheaper than one-way fares.
Important Notes
- Check-in: Low-cost carriers recommend arriving 2 hours early; full-service airlines recommend 1.5 hours.
- Online Check-in: Most airlines allow online check-in 24-48 hours in advance to save you time standing in line.
- Document Check: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months and carry a printed or electronic copy of your flight itinerary.
- Delay Insurance: Flights are prone to delays during the rainy season (6-10). We recommend purchasing travel insurance.
- Cancellation & Change Policy: Low-cost carriers have high fees; confirm your itinerary before booking. Full-service airlines offer more flexible cancellation and change options.