BANGKOK, THAILAND – Flight cancellations since 28 February slowed air traffic over Thai airspace, hitting Suvarnabhumi and Phuket International Airport the hardest, according to officials.
3 percent less traffic in Thai skies
Acting president of the state air navigation company Surachai Nooprom said the cancellations had clearly reduced flight volumes in Thai airspace.
“The cancellations have had a noticeably tangible impact on overall flight traffic in Thai airspace.”
said Surachai, noting that the disruptions began on 28 February and accounted for about 3 percent of all flights.
Suvarnabhumi hit hardest, Phuket close behind
The disruption affected Suvarnabhumi Airport the most, where more than 600 flights were canceled, according to the figures released.
Phuket International Airport followed, with over 400 connections called off during the same period.
Krabi, Chiang Mai and Don Mueang also feel the impact
Other airports impacted included Krabi, Chiang Mai and Don Mueang, the authority reported.
This meant the chain reaction reached not only major international hubs, but also key destinations for domestic traffic and tourism.
Middle East tensions shift routes between Europe and Asia
According to the information provided, the cancellations were linked to ongoing tensions in the Middle East that affected flight routes between Europe, the Middle East and Asia.
When airlines had to detour or replan at short notice, their workload and uncertainty increased, and this fed directly into flight schedules.
Rising fuel costs push ticket prices higher
In parallel, airlines adjusted their fares upward because fuel costs had risen.
Additional volatility in global oil prices could further increase operating costs and, in the long term, dampen demand for travel, Surachai said.
Growth in 2026 expected to slow to a maximum of 3 percent
Despite the disruptions, the overall outlook for aviation remained positive, but growth was expected to slow.
For 2026, an increase in flight volumes of no more than 3 percent compared with 2025 was forecast, depending on how the situation evolved.
Authorities track situation and prepare for rapid change
The responsible agencies were closely monitoring developments, including possible airspace closures, route adjustments and global economic factors.
The authority also reaffirmed its readiness to manage air traffic efficiently and to integrate new flight patterns at short notice.