Passengers will be able to check one 10kg box of fresh fruit into an aircraft hold free of charge at 20 Thai airports from 1 September 2026.
The year-long programme, running until 31 August 2027, involves Thai Airways International, Thai AirAsia, Bangkok Airways, Nok Air, Thai Lion Air, Thai Vietjet Air and EZY Airlines.
One free fruit box per passenger
The Commerce Ministry's Department of Internal Trade signed the cooperation agreement with the Transport Ministry's Department of Airports and the seven airline partners.
The scheme is intended to help farmers move seasonal produce, encourage consumption of Thai fruit and support domestic tourism. Banjongjitt Angsusingh, adviser to the commerce minister, said the government wanted more distribution channels for agricultural products reaching the market.
Banjongjitt Angsusingh, adviser to the commerce minister, said airports and airlines could help travellers take fruit home, from producing areas and tourist destinations without additional transport charges.
Each passenger can receive one standard Department of Internal Trade fruit box, with a maximum total weight of 10kg. The department will provide boxes at participating airports from the scheme's opening day and work with provincial commerce offices to bring farmers into airport sales areas.
The Department of Airports will provide collection points, help passengers use the service and set aside temporary selling space for farmers. Airlines will carry the boxes in the hold without charge, subject to the 10kg limit, and promote the initiative through their communication channels.
Airports included in the first phase
The service initially covers airports in Nan, Lampang, Tak, Phitsanulok, Loei, Udon Thani, Khon Kaen, Sakon Nakhon, Nakhon Phanom, Roi Et, Ubon Ratchathani, Buri Ram, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon, Ranong, Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Krabi, Trang and Narathiwat.
Authorities aim to distribute 100,000 boxes, enough to carry about 1,000 tonnes of fruit. Passengers should contact the designated airport service point to collect a box before checking it in.
Fresh fruit only, with no durian
Only fresh fruit is accepted. It must be dry, free of moisture and packed in the official box, which must be securely sealed with adhesive tape or straps to prevent insects or other foreign objects entering, and liquid or odours escaping.
Durian and other strongly scented fruit are barred from both cabin baggage and the aircraft hold.
"Before bringing fruit on a flight, passengers should ensure that it is packed properly," Banjongjitt said.
"Durian and other strongly scented fruit must not be carried on board or placed in the aircraft hold, so that the smell does not disturb other passengers and everyone can enjoy a convenient and smooth journey."
Pictures courtesy of The Nation
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3 September 2026
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