Thai Lion Air: A Guide to Low-Cost Flights in Thailand, Fares and Punctuality

History and positioning

Created as a regional offshoot of the Lion Air group to tap demand for cheap flights in Thailand, the airline chose Don Mueang, Bangkok's second airport, as its main operating base rather than the more central Suvarnabhumi: a decision typical of Southeast Asian low-cost carriers, which allows lower airport charges but means less convenient transfers for those arriving on intercontinental flights at another airport.

The fleet

The fleet consists of twenty-one Boeing 737-800 and nine 737-900ER aircraft, all Boeing, consistent with the Lion Air group's choice to remain a single-type narrowbody operator. There are no plans to diversify to other manufacturers in the short term.

Fares and baggage

The model is the classic low-cost one: the base fare includes only a small carry-on bag, while checked baggage, seat selection and onboard meals can be bought separately. It pays to check the exact conditions when booking, because price bands for ancillary services vary by route and season.

Routes and network

From Don Mueang the airline links the main Thai cities (Chiang Mai, Phuket, Krabi, Hat Yai) and during 2025 added new regional routes, including Nakhon Phanom, Changsha in China and Surabaya in Indonesia, as well as seasonal services to Japan with a stop in Taiwan. The strategy remains to increase domestic frequencies before venturing onto longer international routes.

What passengers say

Online reviews on travel sites remain divided.

• In its favor: fares among the lowest in the Thai domestic market, good frequency on the main tourist routes.
• Most cited problems: frequent delays in high season and customer service judged slow in case of last-minute changes or cancellations.

Thai Lion Air suits those who travel light between Thai cities and want the lowest possible price, accepting the uncertainty typical of a regional low-cost carrier. It is less suitable for anyone with a tight connection to an intercontinental flight at Suvarnabhumi, since the transfer between Bangkok's two airports takes time and a ground vehicle. If your trip involves changing airports in Bangkok, always allow at least three hours of margin before buying the next ticket.