Tailândia

Thailand has solidified its position as the primary aviation hub of Southeast Asia, with Suvarnabhumi International Airport (BKK) serving as the global gateway. In 2026, the sector is overseen by the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT), which regulates safety, airport operations, and consumer protection. The Thai market operates under guidelines aimed at balancing the liberalization of air transport with rigorous passenger protection standards, largely aligning with ICAO and IATA regulations.

The CAAT establishes strict regulations under the "CAAT Passenger Protection Regulation."

• Delays: For delays exceeding 2 hours, the airline must provide food and water. If the delay exceeds 3 hours, the airline must offer free communication (phone calls/emails). In cases of delays over 5 hours, passengers are entitled to a full refund or rebooking on an alternative flight.
• Cancellations: If notice is given less than 3 days before the flight date, the airline must offer options for a refund or rebooking, in addition to financial compensation, except in cases of *force majeure* (extreme weather conditions or security directives).
• Denied Boarding (Overbooking): The airline is required to seek volunteers. If there are none, passengers denied boarding are entitled to immediate compensation, meals, accommodation (if necessary), and ground transportation between the airport and the hotel.

There is no federal law mandating free checked baggage, allowing airlines (especially low-cost carriers like AirAsia and Thai Lion Air) to charge by weight. However, the CAAT requires:

• Carry-on Baggage: Most airlines operate with a standard 7 kg limit. Price transparency is mandatory; airlines must disclose all baggage fees at the time of booking.
• Dangerous Goods: Thai regulation is strict regarding the transport of lithium batteries and power banks in carry-on luggage, strictly prohibiting them from being checked in hold luggage.

The entry of animals into Thailand is managed by the Department of Livestock Development (DLD).

• Requirements: Obtaining an "Import Permit" from the DLD prior to departure is mandatory. The animal must be microchipped and vaccinated against rabies (at least 21 days before travel).
• Certificates: An International Veterinary Health Certificate issued by the competent authority in the country of origin must be presented within 10 days of arrival. Quarantine may be imposed for up to 30 days if documentation is incomplete, although, in most cases, immediate entry is permitted following airport inspection.

• Unaccompanied Minors: Thai airlines have strict protocols for children under 12. It is necessary to complete an "Unaccompanied Minor" form and designate a guardian for departure and arrival.
• Travel Authorization: Minors traveling with only one parent or with third parties must carry a consent letter notarized by the other parent or legal guardian, translated into English, to prevent issues at immigration.

Thailand follows the Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities Act.

• Accessibility: Airports such as Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang have comprehensive infrastructure (ramps, elevators, accessible restrooms).
• Assistance: Passengers with reduced mobility are entitled to priority assistance from check-in to their seat on the aircraft. It is recommended to request wheelchair service at least 48 hours in advance through the airline. There is no additional cost for personal wheelchairs or medical assistive equipment.

In 2026, Thailand maintains a visa exemption policy for tourism purposes for over 60 countries.

• Passport: Minimum validity of 6 months from the date of entry into the country.
• Electronic Authorization: The eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization) system is mandatory for visitors from visa-exempt countries. Registration must be completed on the official Thai immigration portal prior to departure.
• Proof of Funds: Immigration officers may request proof of financial means (approx. 20,000 THB per person) and a confirmed outbound ticket within the permitted stay period (generally 30 to 60 days, depending on nationality).

• Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT): https://www.caat.or.th/en/
• Department of Livestock Development (Pet Import): https://www.dld.go.th/en/
• Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand (Visas and eTA): https://www.mfa.go.th/en/
• Thai Immigration (Official Portal): https://www.immigration.go.th/en/
• Airports of Thailand (AOT): https://www.airportthai.co.th/en/