The Aeronautical Radio of Thailand has prepared air traffic control measures to handle the increased flight volume during the Chinese New Year. It is expected that flights between China and Thailand from 17–26 February 2026 will average nearly 3,000 flights per day, an 8.3% increase from last year. This continuous rise since before the festival reflects the overall recovery of Thailand's aviation and tourism industries.
Surachai Nuprom, Deputy Executive Director and Acting CEO of the Aeronautical Radio of Thailand Limited (AEROTHAI), stated that air travel in Thailand has been steadily picking up since before the Chinese New Year, beginning 10 February 2026. Flight services average 2,895 per day, a 7% increase from the same period last year, with some days exceeding 3,000 flights. This trend shows growing travel demand before and during the Chinese New Year holiday, which runs from 17–26 February 2026, a 10-day period. The forecast is for a total of 29,096 flights or an average of 2,910 daily flights, up 8.3% compared to the same period in 2025.
For international flights, the Thailand-China route has the highest volume, averaging about 330 flights per day and showing significant recovery since January 2026. The Thailand-India route averages 130 daily flights, and Thailand-Malaysia averages 98 daily flights, both showing continuous growth. The main airports with the highest traffic during Chinese New Year are Suvarnabhumi Airport with 1,150 flights per day, Don Mueang Airport with 700, Phuket Airport with 380, and Chiang Mai Airport with 220. These figures reflect tourist confidence and the ongoing recovery of international travel, with flights from China to Thailand expected to increase steadily in the near future.
Surachai added that AEROTHAI has implemented air traffic management procedures and prepared staffing levels and technology equipment. It participates in the Slot Allocation Committee to align flight schedules with capacity and establishes Air Traffic Flow Management guidelines. Close coordination with all relevant agencies is maintained. Emergency response preparedness is also in place to handle the increased flight volume during the festival. This year's Chinese New Year flight numbers clearly signal a strong recovery of Thai aviation. AEROTHAI commits to managing air traffic at full capacity to facilitate all flights in Thai airspace efficiently and safely, supporting the growth of the aviation industry, economy, and tourism in Thailand.
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