
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.
Main airports in Thailand
Bangkok airports: Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang
Bangkok has two international airports. Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) is located 25 km from downtown and handles most long-haul flights.
Don Mueang Airport (DMK) mainly serves domestic routes and low-cost airlines such as AirAsia, Nok Air and Lion Air.
Koh Samui Airport
Koh Samui Airport is small but essential for reaching the Gulf islands. It is the second busiest airport in Thailand after Bangkok, with many international connections.
Phuket Airport
Phuket International Airport welcomes more than 16 million passengers per year. It is the main entry point to Phuket and the surrounding Andaman islands.
Krabi Airport
Krabi Airport is not the largest airport in the region, but it is very convenient as it offers daily flights to Bangkok.
Surat Thani Airport
Surat Thani Airport is very convenient for all travellers wishing to visit the islands in the Gulf of Siam (Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, Koh Tao).
Ticket prices and airlines
Ticket prices to Thailand vary by season. In December and January, rates increase significantly, while promotions are frequent in the low season.
- High season: mid-October to mid-April, with peaks in December and January.
- Low season: May to mid-October, during the rainy period.
Many airlines offer regular deals — it is advisable to book early for the best fares.
Direct flights or stopovers
Tip: Most long-haul flights to Thailand include a stopover. Check layover times carefully, especially on return trips, to avoid long waits.
Some airlines operate direct flights from major capitals. Though slightly more expensive, they save time and reduce fatigue.
The first night in Bangkok
Arriving in Bangkok can be overwhelming due to jet lag, tropical climate and the city’s pace. Booking a first night in advance ensures a smoother start.
Popular areas for travelers include Khao San Road, Sukhumvit and Silom, all offering a wide range of hotels and guesthouses.
Booking.comFAQ about flights and airports in Thailand
Which is the main airport in Thailand?
Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok (BKK) is the country’s largest and busiest international airport.
Which airlines fly directly to Thailand?
Major carriers like Thai Airways, Emirates, Qatar Airways, Lufthansa and Air France operate direct flights from many cities.
When are tickets to Thailand the cheapest?
Flights are usually cheaper between May and October, during the rainy season.
Which airport is best for reaching the islands?
Phuket Airport for the Andaman Sea, Koh Samui Airport for the Gulf of Thailand.
Is it necessary to book the first night in Bangkok in advance?
Yes, it is recommended to avoid stress upon arrival and to ensure availability during high season.
