1. Introduction
For a relatively small country, the list of budget airlines in Thailand is longer than expected. This means more choices and competition! Finding domestic flights in Thailand is easier than ever.
2. Overview of Airlines
Passengers can choose from various no-frills budget carriers, one “boutique” airline, and the country’s flag carrier. For most routes, there are many flights available at very affordable prices. However, the route from Bangkok to Koh Samui has been notoriously expensive despite the short flight time.
Moreover, while overnight buses and trains offer alternatives from Bangkok to Chiang Mai and the islands in the south, flying can still save time at a minimal extra cost. Flights to Northern Thailand can often be found for as little as $50.
3. Airlines in Thailand
Thai Airways / Thai Smile
Partly owned and headquartered in Bangkok, Thai Airways is Thailand’s flagship carrier, operating from the newer Suvarnabhumi Airport instead of the more budget-focused Don Mueang International Airport.
This airline is classified as a four-star airline, providing passengers with snacks and in-flight entertainment even on short flights. As a result of losing market share to low-cost carriers over the years, Thai Airways acquired a 39-percent stake in Nok Air, a popular budget airline in Thailand, and launched the subsidiary Thai Smile Air in 2012 to serve many destinations throughout Asia.
Thai Airways and Thai Smile are members of Star Alliance, the world’s largest airline alliance, which includes United Airlines.
Bangkok Airways
Bangkok Airways prides itself on being “Asia’s boutique airline.” This means it offers a limited number of flights but with a higher level of service compared to competitors, often at a higher price.
A notable advantage of flying Bangkok Airways is access to their exclusive lounges in various Thai airports. Passengers can relax with snacks and drinks before boarding their flights.
Additionally, like Thai Airways, Bangkok Airways operates from Suvarnabhumi Airport and services routes to Southeast Asia, China, India, and the Maldives.
Thai AirAsia
AirAsia dominates the skies over Asia, being the largest budget carrier in the region. Thai AirAsia is based at Don Mueang International Airport in Bangkok, which has seen increased traffic since its reopening in 2012.
Although flying AirAsia may be termed “good enough,” it remains a budget airline in Thailand, known for extremely low fares. Typically, you will incur extra charges for services such as seat selection, baggage, and credit card payments online, resulting in a final fare that often exceeds the advertised price.
With fares sometimes as low as $20 for domestic flights, the classic overnight train journeys are becoming less appealing.
Moreover, Thai AirAsia X manages long-haul flights to China, Japan, and South Korea.
Nok Air
Nok Air is a budget airline established in partnership with Thai Airways; it features a whimsical bird theme, with vibrant colors adorning their planes.
The airline regularly provides multiple daily flights from Bangkok to popular tourist destinations. Flights to Chiang Mai are both economical and comfortable. Notably, a snack and water are provided, and passengers can select regular seats for free with reasonable upgrades available.
The friendly staff on Nok Air often enhances the travel experience. Additionally, Nok Air is part of the New Value Alliance, which comprises a network of budget airlines across Asia.
Thai Lion Air
Thai Lion Air began operations in late 2013 through its partnership with Indonesia’s Lion Air. This airline serves numerous domestic locations and connects Don Mueang Airport in Bangkok to various international destinations, particularly in China.
Thai VietJet Air
Launched in December 2014, Thai VietJet Air is an offshoot of Vietnam’s VietJet Air and effectively connects Thailand to Vietnam.
Moreover, it offers seasonal flights to Gaya, India, catering to Buddhists visiting the historic site of Gautama Buddha’s enlightenment.
Orient Thai
Orient Thai operates as a no-frills budget carrier from Don Mueang International Airport, though its domestic routes are limited.
Currently, Orient Thai’s only domestic route is from Bangkok to Phuket, with a more prominent focus on facilitating travel for Chinese tourists coming to Thailand from various cities.
