Southeast Asia’s second largest economy to offer free flights for UK tourists

British tourists travelling to Thailand could enjoy free flights as the country seeks to attract visitors during its slow season.

Thailand, one of the top destinations for British travellers, has unveiled plans to offer free domestic flights to visitors to boost tourism during the off-peak months. With cheap international flights to Europe, the Americas, Asia, and Africa are already widely available, Thailand is giving travellers an extra benefit to explore more of the country.

Under the proposal, titled “Buy International, Free Thailand Domestic Flights”, the Tourism and Sports Ministry plans to provide free domestic flights to 200,000 international visitors during the off-peak travel season. Tourists usually flock to Thailand between November and February, when the weather is most favorable and the islands are crowded. The initiative encourages visitors to consider travelling during other times of the year, UK newspaper Daily Express reported.

“The initiative aims to attract at least 200,000 foreign tourists, covering destinations across Thailand, with a particular focus on UNESCO-designated cities, popular tourist spots and key destinations nationwide,” said Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong.

Six Thai airlines have already joined the initiative: Thai Airways, Thai AirAsia, Bangkok Airways, Nok Air, Thai Lion Air and Thai Vietjet. Free domestic tickets would be offered to international tourists booking flights into Thailand.

The proposal is currently awaiting approval from the Thai cabinet. If approved, it could allow tourists to explore the country at a much lower cost.

Thailand, the second largest economy in Southeast Asia according to 2024 GDP figures, welcomed a record of nearly 40 million visitors in 2019, according to Reuters.