Airlines may cut flights after Songkran amid rising fuel costs

Thailand’s aviation regulator expects airlines to adjust flight frequencies after the Songkran holiday in response to rising fuel costs, although domestic travel during the festive period remains unaffected.

The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) said yesterday that domestic flights are operating as normal, with no signs of jet fuel shortages, ensuring smooth travel for passengers during the upcoming Songkran festival.

The regulator noted that several Middle Eastern carriers have been gradually resuming operations, with some now back to more than half of their normal flight capacity.

Airlines from some countries, including Bahrain and Kuwait, are also preparing to restart services, using airports in Saudi Arabia as temporary operational bases.

However, flights from a small number of countries involved in ongoing conflicts have yet to resume.

Despite stable operations, the CAAT said jet fuel prices have risen significantly since the onset of tensions in the Middle East, increasing cost pressures on airlines.

Even so, the use of dynamic pricing mechanisms and coordinated efforts across the aviation sector have helped maintain reasonably priced tickets, especially for passengers who book in advance.

Passengers are advised to purchase tickets directly from airlines to ensure transparent pricing and conditions that comply with regulatory guidelines.

The CAAT said it is coordinating with Thai airlines to review service strategies, which may include reducing or consolidating flights on certain routes to better align with demand and manage costs.

Airlines have also been instructed to comply strictly with passenger protection regulations when making any adjustments.

The regulator affirmed its commitment to balancing operational efficiency with consumer protection as the aviation sector navigates ongoing global uncertainties.