Thailand's aviation industry has experienced a significant increase in flight operations during the Chinese New Year period, with nearly 3,000 flights per day occurring between February 17 and 26, 2026. According to the Aeronautical Radio of Thailand Ltd (AEROTHAI), the total number of flights during this period is expected to reach 29,096, representing an 8.3% rise compared to the previous year. This surge underscores the growing travel demand associated with the festive season and the successful recovery of the aviation sector post-pandemic.
Surachai Nuprom, the Executive Vice President and Acting President of AEROTHAI, stated that flight activity began increasing before the holiday, with the average daily flights at approximately 2,895, a 7% increase over last year, with some days exceeding 3,000 flights. The Chinese market plays a vital role, with around 330 daily flights connecting China and Thailand, indicating a strong resurgence in international air travel for the region.
Airport Traffic and Management Strategies
Major airports including Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, Phuket, and Chiang Mai are witnessing heightened passenger and flight volumes, with respective daily flights of 1,150, 700, 380, and 220. The authorities have put into place strategic measures in Air Traffic Flow Management (ATFM), coordinating with relevant agencies to ensure safety and efficiency amid the increased traffic load. Adjustments to flight scheduling have been made to optimize airport capacity and airspace management.
The Thai government remains committed to supporting the sector through ongoing investments in infrastructure, digital enhancements, and tourism promotion. These efforts aim to bolster Thailand's status as a leading international travel destination and maintain positive growth trends in the aviation industry, especially with China remaining a key market. The recovery signifies resilience and a promising outlook for future expansion in Thailand’s aviation and tourism sectors.
