Seven Thai airlines will allow passengers to check up to 10 kilogrammes of fresh fruit into the aircraft hold free of charge under a year-long programme covering 20 airports across Thailand, officials said this week.

The Commerce Ministry, through its Department of Internal Trade, has signed a cooperation agreement with the Transport Ministry's Department of Airports and seven airline partners—Thai Airways International, Thai AirAsia, Bangkok Airways, Nok Air, Thai Lion Air, Thai Vietjet Air, and EZY Airlines—according to Bangkok Post and other Thai media reports.

The programme runs from September 1, 2026, to August 31, 2027, and is intended to help farmers distribute seasonal produce, encourage the consumption of Thai fruit, and support domestic tourism.

Banjongjitt Angsusingh, adviser to the commerce minister, said the government was seeking a wider range of distribution channels for agricultural produce entering the market.

"Before bringing fruit on a flight, passengers should ensure that it is packed properly," Banjongjitt said, adding that durian and other strongly scented fruit would not be accepted either in the cabin or as checked baggage. "Durian and other strongly scented fruit must not be carried on board or placed in the aircraft hold so that the smell does not disturb other passengers and everyone can enjoy a convenient and smooth journey."

Under the scheme, passengers are entitled to one official box supplied by the Department of Internal Trade at airport service points, with a maximum capacity of 10 kilogrammes. The box must be securely sealed with adhesive tape or straps to prevent insects, contaminants, leakage, and odors from escaping. Only fresh fruit free of excess moisture is eligible, and each passenger may receive one box.

Retail spaces will also be designated at participating airports for farmers to sell seasonal fruit directly to travellers. The initial target is 100,000 boxes, equivalent to approximately 1,000 tonnes of fruit, according to the ministry.

The scheme is being launched at 20 regional airports, including Nan, Lampang, Tak, Phitsanulok, Loei, Udon Thani, Khon Kaen, Sakon Nakhon, Nakhon Phanom, Roi Et, Ubon Ratchathani, Buri Ram, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon, Ranong, Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Krabi, Trang, and Narathiwat, according to Bangkok Post. The seven partner airlines will carry the fruit in their aircraft holds free of charge, subject to the 10 kg limit per passenger, and are expected to promote the programme through their own communication channels.

Sources: Bangkok Post/ The Star/ The Nation