Flight delay and cancellation legislation is now in force in Thailand
Thailand Strengthens Passenger Rights with New Flight Delay and Cancellation Regulations
Under the new Civil Aviation Board (CAB) Notification No. 101, Thai airlines are required to provide specific compensation and passenger support in cases of domestic and international flight delays or cancellations.
These regulations, which came into effect on May 20, apply to scheduled flights within Thailand, flights departing from Thailand, and flights arriving in Thailand if operated by Thai-registered airlines. They also extend to connecting flights in Thailand and tickets issued in Thailand.
Compensation and Support for Flight Delays
For delays over 2 hours, passengers must receive refreshments, meals, and free communication access (calls, email). For delays over 5 hours, passengers have the right to choose either an alternative flight or a ticket refund. Accommodation and transfers must be provided if an overnight stay is necessary. Monetary compensation is also payable:
- Domestic flights: about 1,200 THB
- International flights: about 1,500 THB
For delays over 10 hours, compensation increases based on flight distance:
- Flights ≤1,500 km: 2,000 THB
- Flights 1,500–3,500 km: 3,500 THB
- Flights >3,500 km: 4,500 THB
Additional Passenger Rights
Passengers are entitled to a written explanation detailing the reasons for the delay or cancellation, as well as regular flight status updates. If delays exceed 6 hours, passengers have the right to cancel the trip with a refund.
Claim Procedures and Timing
Airlines must pay compensation within 14 days of the claim, and passengers can submit claims up to 3 years from the flight date.
Tarmac Delays and International Flights
Airlines must allow passengers to disembark if the tarmac delay exceeds three hours without a confirmed take-off time, unless doing so poses a safety or air traffic control risk. The regulations also require airlines to provide support and compensation for international flight delays or cancellations without prior notice, especially when passengers have already arrived at the airport.
Exemptions
The regulations do not apply to charter flights or non-scheduled flights.
The CAAT has emphasized that Notification No 101 marks a significant step in raising passenger protection standards in Thailand's aviation industry. The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) has announced these new regulations to enhance the rights of passengers. The CAAT will work closely with airlines and the public to ensure awareness and compliance for the benefit of all travellers.
- The new regulations in Thailand's aviation industry, such as Notification No 101, extend passenger rights not only for domestic flights, but also for flights departing, arriving, or connecting in Thailand, and even tickets issued in Thailand.
- For international flights, travelers have the advantage of receiving monetary compensation for extended delays, with amounts ranging from approximately 1,500 THB for a 2-hour delay to 4,500 THB for a 10-hour delay, depending on the flight distance.
- Beyond flight delays, these new regulations also provide enhanced support for travelers, including regular updates on flight status, the right to know the reasons for the delay or cancellation, and the option to cancel the trip with a refund if delays exceed 6 hours.
