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What are the current mask rules for airports and airlines in Thailand?

Sep 28, 2022
4 years ago
Christopher ******
ORIGINAL POSTER
Hey everyone, what are the current mask rules for airports in Thailand, and on the plane (Thai Smile)? I’m flying Phuket to Bangkok in a few days and just wanted to check! Cheers!

Ps. Is AOT limo requiring masks in Bkk?
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TLDR : Answer Summary
The current mask rules in Thailand seem to vary depending on personal choice and the specific airline or transport service. While some travelers report not wearing masks on flights or in airports without issue, others note that certain airlines, like Air Asia, have been more stringent about mask enforcement. Generally, masks are 'strongly encouraged' in public settings, but there is no formal mandate, and responses from locals vary. Travelers are advised to consider the preferences of those around them, particularly Thai locals who may continue to wear masks for personal safety.
Jo **********
i think it’s the irrational fear about mask wearing that is bigger social issue. I live in a very rural sparsely populated area in Thailand. On many occasions I have seen many people walking alone into field or in the jungle with a mask on. That’s completely illogical. And yesterday I witnessed a scooter accident where a mother and child crashed and the mothers head was badly damaged because she had no helmet, but she had her mask on
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David *******
Just flew air asia again, no mask in airport or on the plane. Nobody said a thing. You wanna wear it, wear it. You don't, don't.
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Chris *****
There are no hard rules in most places, but given every local wears them to protect you, it is rude not to reciprocate.
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Colin ********
You have to wear on the plane and in ALL public places
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Ben ********
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Terry ********
@Colin *******
this is blatantly wrong.
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Colin ********
@Terry *******
many "foreigners" ignore it and it isn't "enforced" but look around you at all the Thais and respect them.
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Terry ********
@Colin *******
how is it “respecting” them by going along with their paranoia? If they want to wear one, fine. That’s their option. I opt not to unless I’m sick. Then, I would respect everyone by wearing one.
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Colin ********
@Terry *******
and if you're asymptomatic and don't show any signs how will you know? And how about the incubation period? It's disrespectful because wearing a mask is to protect OTHERS not you. So you are risking infecting THEM by your actions, and you have no idea if they are asthmatic or have any underlying medical problems that may cause them serious illness through your actions. Plus you're now in Thailand, when in Rome do as the Romans do. Or are YOU so important that other people's feelings and health aren't important?
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Jo **********
@Colin *******
i think it’s the irrational fear about mask wearing that is bigger social issue. I live in a very rural sparsely populated area in Thailand. On many occasions I have seen many people walking alone into field or in the jungle with a mask on. That’s completely illogical. And yesterday I witnessed a scooter accident where a mother and child crashed and the mothers head was badly damaged because she had no helmet, but she had her mask on
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Colin ********
@Jo *********
yes I agree 100%, there is a lack of education that's causes unnecessary fear, but that doesn't detract from the fact that the fear is real and therefore should be respected. Same as many Thai suppositions, or other people's religions or believes.
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Jo **********
@Colin *******
good perspective
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Terry ********
@Colin *******
by the way, are you aware that the most common phrase in Thailand is “up to you”! That is their culture, so you should respect it.
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Colin ********
@Terry *******
you are so full of yourself, good luck with that.
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Terry ********
@Colin *******
masks only protect other people from larger particles expelled through coughing or sneezing. If I’m asymptomatic it doesn’t make a difference.
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Terry ********
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Mike *****
I went to Bangkok at the beginning of the month. I didn't wear in BKK, on BTS, in the mall, etc.. Specific businesses can require them but any that tried to force masks, I just left.

You'll see most Thais still wearing. Usually it's foreigners not wearing. No longer officially required but they're still pushing them - ex. On the BTS, a message plays regularly stating not required but still "strongly encouraged".
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George *********
Flew to BKK then DMK to Nan 2 weeks ago. In Grab, wore mask. Plane wore mask. Air Asia was strict. ANA was very strict about it too. Masks are still everywhere for some reason.
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Terry ********
@George ********
I flew Air Asia 2 weeks ago and didn’t wear a mask. No one said a thing.
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George *********
@Terry *******
that’s awesome.

I thought the flight attendants might be from the 3rd reich.
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Terry ********
@George ********
you must have had bad luck with the crew.
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George *********
@Terry *******
I think so.
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George *********
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David *******
I flew into Suvarnabhumi and took AOT to my hotel and flew Air Asia from Don Muanng all within the last month, never wore a mask. While most people are wearing them, no one said anything to me even on the plane.
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Gary *********
Up to you.
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Gary *********
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