The Department of Land Transport announced a 3 satang per kilometer increase in interprovincial bus fares, effective 15 September 2026, following diesel fuel prices climbing to 39.84 baht per liter to align with actual operational costs.
The Department of Land Transport explained that fare adjustments reflect changes in fuel prices to align with current service costs, especially fuel, a major expense in bus operations. Since April 2026, the department has adjusted fares up or down five times in response to diesel price fluctuations, following established guidelines.
Recently, diesel prices rose to 39.84 baht per liter, exceeding the last base price of 34 baht per liter. On 11 September 2026, the Central Land Transport Control Board considered the necessity of fare increases due to a 5 baht per liter rise in energy costs. To ensure sufficient bus services from Bangkok to various provinces and between regions, and to maintain overall service quality, the board resolved to raise fares by 3 satang per kilometer per seat for category 2 (Bangkok to provinces) and category 3 (interprovincial) buses. For example, a 100-kilometer trip will cost 3 baht more per seat. This change takes effect from 15 September 2026. Existing exemptions or discounts remain as previously approved.
Today's fare adjustment is based on a calculation formula considering current real cost factors such as the Consumer Price Index (CPI), Energy Index, and labor wages. This formula allows for flexible fare changes according to market conditions, enabling operators to collect fares that fairly reflect actual operating costs, support continued bus services, and ensure passengers can travel consistently. The Department of Land Transport will closely monitor fuel prices and service costs to keep fare adjustments fair, appropriate, and not burdensome to the public.