Improved Flight Delay and Cancellation Protections for International Passengers in Thailand Announced

If you’re flying internationally from Thailand, new rules are about to give you better protection when your flight gets delayed or cancelled. Starting May 20, 2025, airlines must follow stricter guidelines designed to protect passengers when flight disruptions occur, especially if you’re already at the airport. These regulations coincide with Thailand’s expansion of international flight routes, including long-awaited direct flights to the United States.

This article outlines your entitlements during flight delays, cancellations, and denied boarding, what you’re owed if your flight gets cancelled, and how these new rules could shape your next trip.

Who Announced the New Thai Airport Rules and Why Now?

The new protections were announced by Suriya Juangroongruangkit, Thailand’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport. He leads the Civil Aviation Board, the agency that approved these rules. The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand will make sure airlines follow them.

This move comes as Thailand tries to rebuild trust in its aviation system. In 2015, the US downgraded Thailand’s safety rating, which blocked Thai airlines from flying directly to the US. Now that the American FAA has restored Thailand to the top safety category, Thai airlines are cleared for direct routes again to US airports. With more international passengers expected, the government says these rules will help protect your rights if something goes wrong.

What New Protections are International Passengers in Thailand Getting?

Thailand’s Civil Aviation Board has approved a new rule called Regulation No. 101. It gives you clearer rights when your international flight gets delayed or cancelled without warning. The rule applies to all scheduled domestic and international flights and takes effect on May 20, 2025.

The goal is to make sure you get fair treatment, especially when delays happen after you’ve already arrived at the airport. The regulation covers everything from food and communication to cash compensation and hotel stays, depending on how long the delay lasts.

What You Get if the Airline Delays Your Flight from Thailand

If your flight is delayed and you’re already at the airport, the airline must take care of you based on how long you wait.

If the delay lasts more than 2 hours, the airline must give you food, drinks, or vouchers to buy them. You should also get free access to a phone or internet to contact someone.

If the delay goes past 5 hours, the airline must give you 1,500 baht in cash or something of equal value, like travel credits or miles. You also get a hotel stay and transportation if you need to stay overnight. If you decide not to continue your trip, the airline must give you a refund or another way to reach your destination.

If the delay hits 10 hours, the compensation increases even more. The airline must pay you based on the distance of your flight. You can get up to 4,500 baht in cash or an equivalent alternative like miles or vouchers. Compensation must be provided within 14 days. Again, if an overnight stay is required, transportation and lodging must be provided to you.

What Happens If Your Flight Is Cancelled Or You’re Denied Boarding?

If your international flight is cancelled or you’re not allowed to board, the airline must treat it like a serious delay. You’re entitled to the same benefits as if your flight were delayed for more than 10 hours. That includes cash compensation, travel credits, or miles, plus hotel stays and transport if needed.

There are a few exceptions. If the airline tells you at least 7 days in advance, they don’t have to compensate you. The same goes if they find another flight that gets you to your destination within 3 hours of your original arrival time. They also don’t have to pay if the cancellation is caused by something out of their control (“force majeure”), like extreme weather or emergencies.

Direct Flights from US to Thailand Returning

Thailand has just regained its top aviation safety rating from the US Federal Aviation Administration. This change means Thai airlines can now offer direct flights to and from the United States for the first time since 2015.

With more international passengers expected, the government wants stronger protections in place for flight cancellations to improve its image among international tourists. With new rules that help make sure passengers are not left without support in the event of airline failure or disruption, Thailand becomes an even more attractive place to go on vacation.

Make Sure Your Trip to Thailand is Smooth and Easy

When flying to and from Thailand, it’s not just airline rules that matter. If you need help with visas, whether you’re entering Thailand or heading overseas, contact Siam Legal. We’re a full-service law firm with over 20 years of experience handling Thai visas, foreign visas, extensions, and overstay problems. Get in touch with us for clear, professional support.

Category: Travel