AirAsia CEO Warns Against Thai Airport Fee Hike

Tony Fernandes, founder and CEO of AirAsia, has voiced strong opposition to Airports of Thailand’s (AOT) plan to raise the international passenger service charge (PSC). Fernandes warned that the increased fees could negatively impact Thailand's tourism, especially during a challenging period for global aviation. He urged AOT to postpone the fee hike by at least one year to help airlines and the tourism sector recover from sustained economic pressures.

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Fernandes highlighted that airlines, including AirAsia, are already raising ticket prices due to global fuel cost increases and other challenges. He noted that raising the airport fees now could deter budget travelers, who are crucial to Thailand’s economy and contribute significantly to it. Fernandes advocated for a fee structure that distinguishes between low-cost and full-service airlines, arguing that the current system is unfair to budget carriers.

He further suggested enhancing logistics infrastructure and expanding cargo operations as alternative revenue sources instead of burdening passengers with higher fees. With flight costs rising due to the oil crisis, Fernandes emphasized the need for strategic actions to ensure aviation and tourism sectors remain viable. Meanwhile, Thailand’s Ministry of Transport has instructed airlines to keep fare increases within legal caps amidst escalating operational costs.

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now · The Thaiger · 22 May 2026