Rising Costs Spur AAT to Request Government Aid for Aviation

The Airline Association of Thailand (AAT) is seeking government intervention for relief measures as the aviation industry faces escalating cost pressures. In a recent meeting with executives from its member airlines, including Bangkok Airways and Thai AirAsia, the AAT discussed challenges posed by global economic conditions and external factors, particularly the geopolitical tensions affecting fuel prices.

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The association highlighted the volatility in fuel prices as a critical issue, resulting in increased and unpredictable operating costs for airlines. It plans to propose that the government temporarily reduce the excise tax on aviation fuel for domestic flights to alleviate these burdens. AAT believes this measure will help stabilize airfares and keep them accessible to the public.

Emphasizing the pivotal role of aviation in Thailand’s infrastructure, AAT stated that government support is crucial during times of economic instability. It believes such aid would enhance Thailand’s competitive edge and ensure sustainable growth in the long term, benefiting national connectivity and regional income distribution.

The meeting also addressed preparations for Songkran 2026, with plans for additional special flights to meet anticipated demand. Collaboratively, carriers intend to offer fare reductions capped at 30% to promote domestic tourism. They aim to enhance service quality and operational standards to bolster passenger confidence and safety.

In another development, Thailand-Europe airfares have doubled due to airspace closures related to the Israel-Iran conflict, affecting European route capacities. These disruptions have intensified the burden on airlines already dealing with cost challenges, reported The Thaiger.

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now · The Thaiger · 18 Mar 2026

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