Free Domestic Flights Boost Tourism

The following transcription features news stories from across Thailand, hosted by Alex and Jay on the Good Morning Thailand program. The coverage ranges from free domestic flights designed to boost tourism to efforts aimed at reviving Banthat Thong Road’s global street-food reputation.

1. Free Domestic Flights Boost Tourism
Nok Air, backed by the government, is offering free domestic flights to inbound travellers. The scheme runs until November, with 60,000 seats per airline, to drive domestic tourism.

2. Tourist Arrivals Decline, Forecast Cut
Thailand’s Tourism Ministry reports a 7% drop in arrivals this year. The 2025 forecast has been lowered to 33 million, far below 2019 levels.

3. Bank of Thailand Tightens Mobile Transfers
New daily transfer limits of 30,000–50,000 baht apply to users under 15 and over 65 with new accounts. The rule aims to protect them from scams.

4. Pattaya Nightlife Venues Inspected
Authorities checked licenses, permits, and IDs at several nightlife spots in Pattaya. No violations were found, but inspections will continue to ensure safety.

5. Illegal Water Taps Shut in Jomtien
Officials dismantled unauthorised water connections in Jomtien. The raid highlights ongoing infrastructure abuse and stricter enforcement.

6. Police Accused of Taking Evidence Money
Gamblers in Nakhon Si Thammarat accuse police of pocketing 50,000 baht seized during a raid. The case has raised corruption concerns.

7. Thailand Showcases Alien: Earth Filming Sites
Filming across seven provinces for Disney+ series Alien: Earth cost 2.8 billion baht and employed 16,000 Thais. The sites are now tourist attractions.

8. Banthat Thong Road Revival Planned
Bangkok’s Banthat Thong Road will be revitalised with festivals, eco-upgrades, and vendor training. The goal is to restore its street-food fame.