CAAT

The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) is the government agency under the Ministry of Transport responsible for the regulation, oversight, and enforcement of all civil aviation activities within the Kingdom of Thailand. Its jurisdiction encompasses operational safety, security against acts of unlawful interference, and the protection of consumer (passenger) rights. CAAT operates in compliance with ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization) standards, ensuring that both Thai and foreign airlines operating within Thai territory adhere to airworthiness, flight crew licensing, and fare transparency standards.

CAAT requires full transparency regarding the final price of airline tickets.

• Fares: Airlines are required to display the total price (including airport taxes and surcharges) at the time of initial booking. Extra fees cannot be included by default (no opt-out boxes).
• Carry-on Baggage: While the general standard establishes a 7kg limit for the cabin, CAAT mandates that companies clearly specify permitted dimensions and weights during the checkout process.
• Checked Baggage: There is no universal mandatory free baggage allowance, but airlines are required to clearly list checked baggage fees before payment. In the event of lost or damaged luggage, liability follows the Montreal Convention, with compensation values set by CAAT.

Transporting pets in Thailand follows CAAT safety guidelines and the sanitary standards set by the Department of Livestock Development (DLD):

• Rules: Cabin transport is only permitted by select Thai airlines under strict size and weight conditions (generally up to 8kg, including the carrier). Larger animals must be transported in the pressurized hold.
• Documentation: A Veterinary Health Certificate, proof of rabies vaccination, and, for international flights, an Export Permit from the DLD are mandatory.
• Safety: Transport crates must comply with IATA standards (Live Animals Regulations - LAR).

• Seating: CAAT encourages airlines to allocate seats for children under 12 near their guardians at no extra cost—a practice that has become a compliance standard for domestic route approval.
• Equipment Allowance: Foldable strollers and car seats must be transported free of charge as checked baggage, regardless of the contracted baggage allowance, provided they are for the child's personal use.
• Bassinets: These must be requested at least 48 hours in advance.

CAAT maintains strict requirements regarding the treatment of passengers with reduced mobility (PRM):

• Wheelchairs: Must be requested at the time of booking or at least 48 hours before the flight. Airlines are prohibited from charging for wheelchair services within the airport or for boarding/disembarking assistance.
• MEDIF (Medical Information Form): Passengers with serious medical conditions must submit a MEDIF. The airline must process the assessment within a maximum of 72 hours.
• Priority: Passengers with disabilities or the elderly are entitled to priority boarding and, whenever possible, priority disembarkation, ensuring human assistance throughout the process.

• Official CAAT Portal: https://www.caat.or.th/en/
• Passenger Protection Regulations: https://www.caat.or.th/en/archives/tag/passenger-rights
• Department of Livestock Development (Pet Rules): https://dld.go.th/en/
• Official Announcements and News (2026 Updates): https://www.caat.or.th/en/news