Chiang Mai Airport Reports 37% Surge in Chinese Tourists During Golden Week
Chiang Mai International Airport experienced a significant rise in passenger traffic during the Chinese Golden Week holiday, with officials preparing for the upcoming high season.
According to a report by Khaosod Online, Chiang Mai International Airport saw a notable increase in activity during the Chinese Golden Week holiday, which ran from October 1 to October 7, 2026. Acting Director of Chiang Mai Airport, Group Captain Sakarn Udol, stated that the airport handled an average of 24,317 passengers per day during this period, marking an 11.34% increase compared to normal traffic. Flight operations also rose by 19.74%, averaging 182 flights daily.
Data from the Chiang Mai Airport Immigration checkpoint highlights the strength of the international market, noting that 38,117 Chinese nationals entered Thailand through the airport in September 2026. While the Golden Week period specifically saw a 37% increase in Chinese tourist arrivals, the airport is now shifting its focus toward managing the broader high season demand. Alongside Chinese travelers, the airport is also preparing for increased passenger volumes from South Korea and Taiwan.
For travelers and residents, this surge indicates a busier period for airport logistics and local tourism infrastructure. While the airport has confirmed these figures for the early October period, the long-term impact on total high-season capacity and potential wait times for the remainder of the year remains to be confirmed as the peak travel season progresses.
