Thailand's airports are preparing for a notable increase in passenger traffic during the anticipated Songkran festival in April 2025. The Ministry of Transport has announced that international flights are projected to rise by 9.1% year-on-year, while domestic air travel is expected to see an even more substantial increase of 22.7%.

Airports of Thailand (AOT) forecasts indicate that between April 11 and 17, 2025, international flights at Thailand's six international airports—Suvarnabhumi (BKK), Don Mueang (DMK), Chiang Mai (CNX), Mae Fah Luang Chiang Rai (CEI), Phuket (HKT), and Hat Yai (HDY)—will total approximately 267,603.

Domestic flights are set to reach around 213,792.

In a bid to facilitate travel during this busy period, major airports will offer free parking.

Deputy government spokesperson Anukool Pruksanusak stated that the Ministry of Transport is coordinating closely with relevant stakeholders to ensure a seamless passenger experience, minimizing congestion in terminals by increasing personnel to assist with travel documentation and maintain order.

Further insights from a survey conducted by the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce suggest that the economic atmosphere is contributing to a positive outlook for spending during Songkran.

Projections indicate that spending could exceed 130 billion baht, surpassing the 128.83 billion baht noted during the previous year's festival and significantly higher than the 69 billion baht recorded in 2020. Anukool noted that only 5% of respondents indicated plans to reduce their expenditure, reflecting increased consumer confidence in the economy and tourism.

The survey also found that 72.1% of respondents plan to travel during the festival, representing the highest travel intent since before the pandemic.

Despite a recent earthquake, 74.5% of consumers reported no change in their spending habits, with a majority indicating they will engage in traditional Songkran activities while exercising caution in potential risk areas.

Anukool reinforced that the government has taken measures to inspect the safety of hotels and tourist attractions, with enhanced protocols to ensure the safety of Thai citizens and international visitors alike during the festival.

In anticipation of increased monetary demand, Thailand's financial institutions are preparing to meet the anticipated demand for cash during Songkran.

Budsakorn Teerapunyachai, assistant governor of the Bank of Thailand’s Payment Infrastructure and Services Group, noted that banks are expected to require around 40 billion baht in banknotes to accommodate heightened activity driven by this holiday.

Commercial banks are adjusting their capital reserves accordingly, with Bangkok Bank allocating 35 billion baht for distribution from April 12 to 16 through its extensive network of branches and ATMs. Siam Commercial Bank is set to provide 29.2 billion baht, while Kasikornbank has reserved 24.35 billion baht specifically for the holiday period.

Other banks, including Krungthai Bank and TMBThanachart Bank, have also prepared substantial amounts to support financial transactions during the festivities.

Thailand is set to witness one of its busiest travel seasons, underscoring a revitalized tourism sector and the return of traditional celebrations in the face of recent challenges.