Chiang Mai return fares reach ฿28,000 ahead of Yi Peng
Thailand’s aviation regulator says strong demand and festival-related schedule changes have reduced seat availability on the Bangkok–Chiang Mai route.
Online platforms have advertised Bangkok–Chiang Mai return tickets at up to ฿28,000 for the Loy Krathong and Yi Peng festivals. The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) said on November 12 that exceptional demand and timetable changes had constrained seat availability for November 23–26.
A survey by Chiang Mai News found return tickets for November 23–25 priced between ฿18,000 and ฿28,000 across several booking platforms. One-way fares averaged about ฿9,000. CAAT said outbound seats were especially scarce on November 23 and 24, with return services heavily booked for November 25 and 26.
CAAT said third-party listings might differ from airlines’ own prices because platforms can adjust fares as availability falls. It also warned that platforms’ seat listings may not match airline booking systems. The regulator advised passengers to verify prices and availability with carriers before buying, including whether fares meet legal limits.
Chiang Mai Tourism Council president Paisan Sukcharoen said costly flights could deter festival visitors. More than 200,000 domestic and international tourists were expected, he said, although some short-haul international travellers typically decide closer to departure. Local tourism operators had asked airlines to reconsider festival pricing, but Paisan said there had been no noticeable change.
Chiang Mai International Airport expects 591 flights carrying more than 92,000 passengers over November 23–25. It forecasts approximately 260 flights on November 26, its busiest day for aircraft movements, while passenger traffic is expected to peak at around 33,560 on November 25.
Yi Peng features sky lantern releases. CAAT warned that related aviation safety measures could alter flight schedules and said it would keep monitoring fares for transparency and passenger protection.
