Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Thapanee Kiatphaibool and Director-General of the Department of Airports Danai Ruengsorn, along with four partner agencies, have signed a Letter of Intent to allow transit and transfer passengers to exit the airport and experience Thailand during their layovers.

The four participating agencies are Kasetsart University’s Faculty of Engineering, the Airlines Association of Thailand, Thai Airways International Public Company Limited, and Suvarnabhumi Airport Hotel Company Limited.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn and Deputy Minister of Transport Phattrapong Phattraprasit presided over the signing ceremony on 5 October 2025.

Ms. Thapanee stated that TAT views connecting passengers as a major opportunity. Rather than remaining "flight-waiting passengers," they can become active tourists experiencing Thailand during their layovers. This partnership bridges aviation capacity with tourism potential to deliver meaningful experiences while generating economic value.

Under this cooperation framework, transit tourism routes and tailored experience packages will be designed to match various layover durations, ensuring convenience, safety, and timely returns for connecting flights. The initiative will integrate data to support a seamless journey from the airport to local attractions and back. Furthermore, it aims to create economic opportunities for surrounding businesses, including restaurants, shops, tourist sites, communities, and local service providers.

This collaboration aligns with the Government's policy to establish Thailand as a regional aviation and tourism hub by leveraging its strategic location, flight network, and tourism appeal to add value to journeys passing through the country.

In the initial stage, TAT will focus on developing benefits and transit experiences suited to layover durations while coordinating with local agencies and operators for effective implementation. This will help boost spending, distribute income, and provide meaningful experiences for travelers – elevating Thailand into a high-value destination while continually enhancing the competitiveness of the Thai tourism industry.