Thailand Launches ‘Free Domestic Flights’ Scheme to Attract International Tourists

Thailand is set to make exploring the country even more enticing for international visitors with a new initiative called “Buy International, Free Thailand Domestic Flights.” The programme aims to encourage tourists to venture beyond popular spots like Bangkok and Phuket to discover lesser-known destinations nationwide. Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong has proposed a 700 million baht budget to the Cabinet to support the scheme, reported The Nation Thailand.

How the Scheme Works
Under the plan, the Thai government will subsidize domestic flight tickets priced at 1,750 baht one-way (3,500 baht round-trip). Destinations will include UNESCO World Heritage cities, key tourist regions, and other notable spots. The programme will run from August to December 2025, with travel eligible between September and November.

Foreign tourists—including Indian visitors—who purchase standard international tickets to Thailand will qualify. Each traveller can receive up to two domestic flight tickets (departure and return) with a 20 kg baggage allowance.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) will manage the initiative, collaborating with six domestic airlines: Thai AirAsia, Bangkok Airways, Nok Air, Thai Airways International, Thai Lion Air, and Thai VietJet. The scheme aims to attract 200,000 international tourists and generate direct revenue of 8.81 billion baht, with broader economic benefits estimated at 21.80 billion baht.

Other Tourism Initiatives
Thailand is also continuing the “Half-Price Thailand Travel” programme to promote domestic tourism. Major city bookings are nearly full, with 54,075 slots still available in smaller destinations, expected to be booked by September.