During the Songkran festival from April 11 to 17, 2025, Airports of Thailand (AoT) has introduced a unique initiative to welcome travelers by featuring Moo Deng, a baby pygmy hippopotamus that gained international fame in 2024.

Limited-edition Moo Deng dolls, adorned in traditional Songkran floral shirts, have been placed on baggage carousels across six major airports: Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, Chiang Mai, Mae Fah Luang-Chiang Rai, Phuket, and Hat Yai.

Moo Deng, born on July 10, 2024, at Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Si Racha, Chonburi, became an internet sensation at two months old after images and videos of her playful behavior went viral.

Her name, meaning "bouncy pig" in Thai, was selected through a public poll with over 20,000 participants.

The zoo has since reported a significant increase in visitors, attributing the surge to Moo Deng's popularity.

In response to the anticipated influx of travelers during the Songkran period, AoT projects a total of 79.19 million passengers across its airports, marking an 18.3% increase from the previous year.

This includes a 14.1% rise in international passengers and a 25.5% increase in domestic travelers.

Suvarnabhumi Airport alone expects to handle approximately 1.34 million passengers over 7,022 flights during the festival week.

To accommodate the heightened travel activity, AoT has implemented measures to enhance passenger experience and operational efficiency.

These include increased staffing for passenger assistance, streamlined travel document verification processes, and the introduction of festive elements such as the Moo Deng dolls to create a welcoming atmosphere for travelers.