Thailand launches free flight campaign
On 20 August, Thailand’s Tourism and Sports Ministry announced plans to roll out 200,000 free domestic flight tickets for overseas visitors. If approved by the Cabinet next week, the campaign will run from September to November 2025, aiming to spread tourists across more regions during the country’s low travel season.
The initiative, called “Buy International, Free Thailand Domestic Flights,” aims to allow foreign travellers on an international flight into Thailand to claim a complimentary round-trip domestic ticket with 20kg of checked baggage.
The tickets, worth about 3,500 baht (S$128), will be valid on six airlines: Thai Airways, Thai AirAsia, Bangkok Airways, Nok Air, Thai Lion Air and Thai Vietjet.
Government support and economic goals
Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong said the government will subsidise each journey, with a total budget of 700 million baht (S$27.6 million) allocated to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT).
“The initiative aims to attract at least 200,000 foreign tourists, covering destinations across Thailand, with a particular focus on Unesco-designated cities, popular tourist spots and key destinations nationwide,” Sorawong said.
Officials reportedly estimate the scheme could generate at least 8.8 billion baht (S$348 million) in direct revenue and as much as 21.8 billion baht (S$860 million) in wider economic benefits.
Pushing travellers beyond major cities
Authorities hope the campaign will steer visitors beyond Bangkok, Phuket and Chiang Mai to lesser-known provinces filled with temples, cultural landmarks and quieter beaches. Only air arrivals will qualify for the free tickets, and bookings made before the scheme launches will not be eligible.
The approach mirrors a similar programme introduced by Japan Airlines in 2024, which offered complimentary domestic flights to international passengers to encourage exploration beyond Tokyo and Osaka.
Tourism industry under pressure
Thailand is still struggling to regain its pre-pandemic momentum. Nearly 40 million tourists visited in 2019, but the country expects just 33 million in 2025, down from an initial projection of 39 million.
As of August 17, 20.8 million foreign visitors had come, which is roughly 7% less than the previous year. Chinese travellers remain the largest group, with 2.9 million arrivals so far.
Analysts say the free-flight scheme is among the most eye-catching strategies yet, joining visa relaxations, delayed entry fees and digital nomad visas as part of Bangkok’s push to revive its most vital industry.
Outlook for Singaporean travellers
For Singaporeans, the offer could mean flying into Bangkok, then jetting off to Chiang Rai, Krabi or even Isaan at no extra cost.
If the Cabinet approves the plan, tickets will be available from September, giving travellers an added incentive to explore Thailand beyond the usual hotspots.
Watch a video here:
@thethaigerofficial Thailand launches 200,000 free domestic flights for foreign visitors with inbound stubs. The campaign aims to boost regional travel and support local economies. Thailand Tourism FreeFlights TravelNews
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