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.

Official changes from this authority that affect passengers appear in this guide's updates as they are published. Each one is checked against the official document before it goes live.

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 allowance; airlines must show checked baggage costs before payment. For loss or damage, liability follows the Montreal Convention.

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).

• Seats: ask for seats together when booking; seat selection rules and fees vary by airline.
• Equipment allowance: many airlines carry one folding stroller and one car seat per child free of charge; check the policy before you travel.
• Bassinets: they are limited and must be requested in advance (many airlines ask for 48 hours).

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 send the MEDIF form to the airline in advance (many ask for 48 to 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/aviation/passenger/passenger-rights-protection/
• Bringing pets into Thailand (Royal Thai Embassy, Sydney): https://sydney.thaiembassy.org/en/content/pet-into-thailand
• Information for passengers (CAAT): https://www.caat.or.th/en/aviation/passenger/