CHIANG MAI, Thailand — October 8, 2026 — Passenger traffic at Chiang Mai International Airport increased during China’s Golden Week holiday from October 1–7, with Chinese arrivals rising by approximately 37% compared with the average daily figure in September.
Acting Chiang Mai Airport Director Sqn. Ldr. Sakarn Udon said the airport handled an average of 24,317 passengers per day, up 11.34% from normal levels, while average daily flight movements reached 182 flights, an increase of 19.74%. International travel demand was particularly strong during the week-long holiday.
Data from Chiang Mai Airport Immigration showed that 38,117 Chinese passengers entered Thailand through Chiang Mai Airport in September, averaging around 1,271 arrivals per day. From October 1–7, the airport recorded 12,209 Chinese arrivals, or about 1,744 per day—approximately 37% higher than September’s daily average. Chinese visitors remained the largest foreign passenger group, followed by visitors from South Korea and Taiwan.
Trip.com Group data also indicated increased interest among Chinese travelers in flights to Chiang Mai during Golden Week compared with the same period last year. Younger travelers, particularly Gen Z aged 18–24, are also showing interest in Chiang Mai’s nature, culture, food and local activities. Chiang Mai Airport currently has direct connections to major Chinese cities including Chongqing, Chengdu, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Kunming, Xi’an, Jinghong and Hong Kong. The airport said it has prepared additional passenger services and coordination with airlines and relevant agencies ahead of the high season.
