CAAT Addresses High Airfare Prices to Chiang Mai During Loy Krathong

The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) has issued a statement regarding reports of significantly high airfare prices for flights to Chiang Mai during the upcoming Loy Krathong festival. According to Matichon Online, the regulatory body attributes these price surges to the pricing mechanisms employed by third-party travel agents and online booking platforms rather than the airlines themselves. The CAAT explained that these intermediaries often adjust prices based on demand and availability, which can lead to costs exceeding standard airline rates during peak travel periods. To mitigate these costs, the CAAT advises travelers to book tickets directly through official airline websites or authorized channels. By purchasing directly from the carriers, passengers can ensure they are paying the airline's base fare without additional markups applied by third-party aggregators. While this clarification explains the source of the price volatility, it remains to be seen if further regulatory oversight will be implemented to cap agent fees during major national holidays. Travelers planning to visit Chiang Mai for the festivities are encouraged to compare prices across multiple platforms and prioritize direct bookings to secure more favorable rates.