Thailand

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.

• Passport: at least 6 months of validity from the date of entry.
• TDAC (Thailand Digital Arrival Card): mandatory since 1 May 2025 for all foreign nationals; fill it in for free on the official website (tdac.immigration.go.th) within the 3 days before arrival. There is no Thai electronic travel authorisation (ETA) in force.
• Visa exemption: since 15 September 2026, Thailand's unilateral visa exemption has dropped from 60 to 30 days and covers fewer countries; some nationalities keep longer stays under bilateral agreements. Check yours on the immigration website.
• Proof: immigration may ask for proof of sufficient funds for the stay and an onward ticket.

The CAAT sets passenger rights in Civil Aviation Board Regulation No. 101 (2025), which covers scheduled domestic and international flights.

• Delays of more than 2 hours: the airline must provide food and drink (or vouchers) and a means of communication, free of charge.
• Delays of more than 5 hours (domestic flights): compensation of 1,200 baht, plus a refund or rebooking; the airline may offer credits or miles of equal or greater value if the passenger agrees.
• Cancellations: refund or rebooking and, on domestic flights, compensation of 1,500 baht in the cases set out in the regulation, except for force majeure (extreme weather, security orders).
• Waiting on board: after 3 hours on the ground with no scheduled departure, passengers must be allowed to disembark unless safety prevents it.
• Denied boarding (overbooking): the airline must look for volunteers; passengers denied boarding are entitled to compensation, meals, a hotel (if needed) and transport.

There is no 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 authorisation: minors travelling with only one parent or with another adult are advised to carry a consent letter from the other parent or legal guardian, notarised and translated into English, to avoid problems 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.

• Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT): https://www.caat.or.th/en/
• Bringing pets into Thailand (Royal Thai Embassy, Sydney): https://sydney.thaiembassy.org/en/content/pet-into-thailand
• Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand (Visas): 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/