In order to have a comfortable trip to Thailand, you should pay attention to many things from the beginning of your trip and proceed with planning. Before starting your trip, you should know the best airlines in Thailand to know which one is right for you. In this article, we are going to introduce you to the best airlines in Thailand and see together what features each one has and which people are suitable for it, and should you set aside a large budget to travel with these airlines or not?
Reading Suggestion: Chiang Mai Nightclubs
1. Thai Airways: The National Pride
As the flagship carrier of Thailand, Thai Airways offers a premium flying experience with a blend of comfort and Thai hospitality. Operating both domestic and international flights, this airline is well-known for its excellent onboard service and luxurious amenities.
The airline offers several classes, including Royal First Class, Royal Silk Class (Business), and Economy Class, catering to various travel preferences and budgets. Royal First Class passengers enjoy private suites, fine dining, and access to exclusive lounges, while Royal Silk Class features lie-flat seats and gourmet meals. Economy Class, though more budget-friendly, still maintains a high standard of service with comfortable seating and delicious in-flight meals. Travelers seeking a premium experience, whether for business or leisure, will find Thai Airways highly suitable, with an average budget ranging from $800 to $3,000 for international flights, depending on the destination and class of service.
Awards: Thai Airways has received numerous awards over the years. Notably, in the Skytrax World Airline Awards, they were recognized as the “Best Airline in Thailand” multiple times. In 2022, they received awards for “Best Customer Service” and “Best Business Class” in Asia.
2. Bangkok Airways: Boutique Airline Experience
For those seeking a more intimate flying experience, Bangkok Airways is often dubbed as the “boutique airline” of Asia. It offers a unique blend of quality service and affordability, serving numerous domestic routes and select international destinations.
The airline offers two main classes: Business Class and Economy Class. Business Class passengers can enjoy enhanced comfort with wider seats, priority boarding, and access to the airline’s lounges. Economy Class, while more affordable, still emphasizes service quality with complimentary snacks and beverages. Known for its routes to charming destinations like Samui and Chiang Mai, Bangkok Airways is ideal for both leisure travelers wanting a touch of luxury without breaking the bank and business travelers seeking a reliable carrier. A budget of approximately $50 to $300 can be expected for domestic flights, while international flights may range from $150 to $700.
Awards: Bangkok Airways has also been recognized at the Skytrax World Airline Awards. In 2021, they were awarded the title of “Best Regional Airline in Asia.” They have received accolades for their innovative service and operational excellence, including their focus on sustainability in aviation.
3. AirAsia: Budget-Friendly Alternative
For budget travelers, AirAsia is the go-to airline, offering exceptionally low fares while maintaining a decent standard of service. AirAsia covers many domestic and Southeast Asian destinations. Unlike traditional airlines, AirAsia primarily operates in a no-frills model, focusing on affordability. It offers a single Economy Class service, where passengers can choose to pay extra for additional services such as meals and baggage.
Ideal for budget-conscious travelers, especially backpackers, AirAsia attracts those who prioritize cost savings over extra comforts. Travelers can plan a budget of around $25 for domestic flights within Thailand, while international routes may cost between $30 and $150, depending on promotions and time of booking.
Awards: AirAsia has been awarded several titles in the low-cost carrier category, including the “World’s Best Low-Cost Airline” at the Skytrax World Airline Awards, which they received multiple times from 2009 to 2019. This recognition highlights their outstanding service, affordability, and extensive route network.
4. VietJet Air: A Rising Star
VietJet Air, although a Vietnamese carrier, has become increasingly popular for flights to and from Thailand. Known for its low fares and vibrant branding, this airline appeals to a younger demographic. Similar to AirAsia, VietJet Air provides a single Economy Class, which allows travelers to add services, such as checked baggage and in-flight meals, according to their needs.
It caters primarily to young, budget-conscious travelers and those looking to explore popular destinations at affordable prices. The airline is known for its frequent promotional fares, often making flights extremely accessible. A budget of around $30 to $200 is typical for both domestic and regional flights, with prices often lower during promotional periods.
Awards: VietJet has gained recognition as well, notably winning the “Best Low-Cost Airline of the Year” at the Asia Pacific Airlines Awards in 2018. Their innovative marketing campaigns and customer-oriented services have also garnered them accolades in the aviation industry.
5. Nok Air: Embracing the Local Charm
Nok Air, a local low-cost airline, stands out for its quirky branding and vibrant little yellow bird logo. Focused mainly on domestic flights, it connects several popular tourist destinations, including Chiang Mai and Krabi. The airline offers Economy Class seating on its domestic routes, where passengers can expect friendly service and complimentary snacks.
Nok Air connects well-loved tourist destinations like Phuket and Chiang Mai, making it an excellent option for both Thai residents and international visitors. It targets travelers looking for affordability paired with the charm of local hospitality. Travelers can anticipate a budget of around $40 to $150 for domestic flights, which is quite reasonable given the vibrant travel experiences Thailand offers.
Awards: Nok Air has received awards for its service quality. In the 2020 World Airlines Awards, they were recognized as the “Best Low-Cost Airline” in Thailand, emphasizing their commitment to customer satisfaction.
6.Lion Air
Lion Air is a well-known low-cost airline that operates extensive domestic and international routes throughout Southeast Asia, including popular destinations in Thailand. The characteristic of this airline is its no-nonsense approach, which primarily offers economy class services. While Lion Air doesn’t offer the luxuries of high-end airlines, it focuses on affordability and efficiency, making it an attractive choice for budget travelers and those looking to maximize their experience. does Convert your trip without spending money.
Lion Air is especially suited to backpackers and adventure travelers who prioritize affordability and flexibility. Passengers can purchase additional services as needed such as checked baggage, meals, and priority boarding, allowing for a comfortable travel experience. This airline often has promotional fares that can significantly reduce travel costs, making it an attractive option for spontaneous travelers.
Travelers should expect to budget between $30 and $150 for domestic flights in Thailand, depending on the route and time of booking. For international flights, prices usually range from $50 to $200. With a focus on affordability and an extensive network, Lion Air is a popular choice among travelers looking to explore Thailand without breaking the bank.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Airline for Your Thai Adventure
Selecting the best airline for your journey to Thailand depends on your preferences, budget, and travel needs. If you want a luxury airline then you should go with Thai Airways, for a charming boutique experience go with Bangkok Airways, and for budget-friendly options AirAsia and Nok Air are the best options in Thailand. By choosing the right airline, you can ensure that your travel experience is as enjoyable as the destination itself. Don`t forget to write for us in the comments about your experience from Thailand`s airlines.
