Bangkok: The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) has announced a new regulation aimed at enhancing the rights of passengers on international flights in cases of delays or cancellations. These regulations will come into effect on May 20, 2025, and are designed to offer increased protection and compensation to passengers who face inconveniences.

According to Thai News Agency, the Civil Aviation Board (CAB), led by Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Suriya Juangroongruangkit, has introduced Civil Aviation Board Regulation No. 101. This regulation focuses on safeguarding passenger rights on both domestic and international scheduled flights. It mandates specific compensatory measures for passengers who experience flight delays or cancellations without prior notice after arriving at the airport.

For international flights delayed by more than two hours, airlines are required to provide food and beverages or vouchers for such, along with communication facilities like telephone or email, all free o
f charge. If the delay exceeds five hours, additional compensation of 1,500 baht or equivalent travel credits must be offered, alongside accommodation and transport if an overnight stay is necessary. Should a passenger choose not to continue their journey, immediate refund options or alternatives must be provided.

For delays surpassing ten hours, the compensation increases, with cash payments ranging from 2,000 to 4,500 baht depending on the flight distance, or equivalent travel credits. Airlines must promptly offer various options for refunds, flight changes, or alternative transportation.

In cases of flight cancellations or denied boarding, passengers are entitled to similar compensations as those for delays over ten hours, unless the airline provides at least seven days’ notice or offers a suitable flight alternative within a three-hour window from the original schedule. Exceptions apply if the cancellation results from unavoidable external events despite the airline’s precautions.

For domestic flights,
compensation for delays over five hours has doubled from 600 baht to 1,200 baht, while cancellation compensation has increased from 1,200 baht to 1,500 baht, with similar alternatives available for compensation.

The regulation also addresses tarmac delays, requiring airlines to ensure air circulation, temperature control, and lavatory services are maintained, and to allow disembarkation after three hours unless safety or security concerns prevent it.

This new regulation by CAAT represents a significant step in advancing passenger rights within Thailand’s aviation industry.