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Thailand is preparing to launch a fresh travel program that will enhance the adventure for international tourists. The program, named "Buy International, Free Thailand Domestic Flights," aims to motivate travelers to venture beyond popular places like Bangkok and Phuket, and instead explore less-visited areas throughout the country. The Minister of Tourism and Sports, Sorawong Thienthong, has announced intentions to ask the Cabinet for a budget of 700 million baht to fund this initiative, as reported by The Nation Thailand. According to the proposal, the Thai government will subsidize domestic flight tickets costing 1,750 baht for one-way journeys (3,500 baht for round trips). Chosen locations will feature UNESCO World Heritage cities, famous tourist attractions, and important regions throughout the nation. This program is anticipated to take place from August to December 2025, with travel allowed between September and November.
Foreign travelers, including those from India, who buy regular international tickets to Thailand will be eligible for this promotion through airline websites, multi-city choices, connecting flights, or even online travel companies. Each person can receive up to two domestic flight tickets (one for the trip out and one for the return), including a baggage limit of 20 kg. The goal of the project is to attract at least 200,000 international visitors and will be overseen by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT). To make this happen, the TAT will partner with six local airlines - Thai AirAsia, Bangkok Airways, Nok Air, Thai Airways International (THAI), Thai Lion Air, and Thai VietJet - through special deals that support Thailand's aim to improve its economy through tourism. Officials believe that this initiative could bring in at least 8.81 billion baht directly from tourist spending, leading to an overall economic gain of about 21.80 billion baht.
In addition, the Thai government has been implementing the "Half-Price Thailand Travel" program to promote domestic tourism. Reservations in major cities have already reached maximum capacity, with around 54,075 out of 500,000 slots remaining for smaller locations. Authorities anticipate these remaining spots will be filled by September. If this initiative is successful, there may be a second phase aimed specifically at further supporting travel to lesser-known towns and areas in Thailand.
