Airports and Flights in Thailand: Domestic & International Travel Guide

All practical information about planes and airports in Thailand: international and domestic flights, key airports, and travel tips. This guide will help you prepare your arrival, departure, and journeys across the country with confidence.

Airports and Flights in Thailand

Thailand has one of the most developed air networks in Southeast Asia. With over 30 airports — including major international hubs and smaller regional ones — flights are the fastest way to travel long distances.

Airports and Flights in Thailand: Tips, Prices and Airlines

With Thailand attracting millions of travelers every year, flights and airports play a key role. Here’s everything you need to know to travel smoothly.

Domestic Flights in Thailand: Airlines, Airports, Tips and Benefits

Buses, trains, or planes — Thailand offers many travel options. Domestic flights stand out for speed, comfort, and competitive prices. Here’s everything you need to know before booking.

Major Airports in Thailand

• Suvarnabhumi International Airport (BKK) – Bangkok’s main international hub, handling most long-haul flights.
• Don Mueang International Airport (DMK) – Bangkok’s low-cost hub, ideal for domestic and regional flights.
• Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) – Gateway to Northern Thailand.
• Phuket International Airport (HKT) – Main hub for Southern Thailand and islands.
• Samui International Airport (USM) – Privately owned, serving Ko Samui and nearby islands.
• Krabi (KBV), Surat Thani (URT), and Hat Yai (HDY) – Serving the Andaman Coast and Gulf of Thailand.

These airports are well connected by shuttle buses, taxis, and sometimes train lines, making transfers relatively easy.

Domestic Flights in Thailand

Flying domestically saves hours of travel compared to buses and trains. For instance:

• Bangkok to Chiang Mai: 1h15 flight vs. 10h by train.
• Bangkok to Phuket: 1h25 flight vs. 12h by bus.
• Bangkok to Sukhothai: 1h20 flight vs. 8h by bus.

Low-cost airlines such as Nok Air, Thai Lion Air, Thai Smile, and Bangkok Airways dominate the market. Tickets are often inexpensive, especially if booked in advance. Some carriers also offer flight + hotel packages at competitive rates.

Useful Tips for Travelers

• Arrivals & Transfers: Bangkok airports (BKK and DMK) are connected to the city by train (Airport Rail Link, MRT) and shuttle buses.
• Domestic Connections: Allow at least 3 hours between an international and a domestic flight when transiting in Bangkok.
• Luggage: Low-cost airlines often charge extra for checked baggage. Compare before booking.
• Booking: Online booking platforms like 12Go Asia make it easy to compare schedules and prices.
• Visa & Immigration: International passengers go through immigration only once at their first point of entry.

Bangkok Airports

Bangkok has two major airports, each with a specific role:

• Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) – International hub for long-haul flights and some regional connections.
• Don Mueang Airport (DMK) – Dedicated to low-cost airlines and most domestic routes.

For detailed information: Bangkok’s two airports.

Bangkok : Airplane - Airport

With its two airports Bangkok is one of the major hubs of Asia. Here you will find as much information as possible about Bangkok’s airports and the means of transportation. Ideal information to better organize your trip.

FAQ on Airports and Flights in Thailand

Which is the main international airport in Thailand?
Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) is the largest and busiest, located east of Bangkok.

Which airport in Bangkok is for low-cost airlines?
Don Mueang International Airport (DMK) is the hub for most low-cost domestic and regional flights.

Are domestic flights in Thailand reliable?
Yes, flights are frequent, punctual, and generally well-priced compared to other countries.

How early should I arrive before a domestic flight?
Arrive at least 1h30 before departure, and 3h before an international flight.

Is it worth booking flights in advance?
Yes, booking in advance usually secures cheaper fares, especially with low-cost carriers.