Bangkok Airways

  • Bangkok Airways

Bangkok Airways

Airlines Reviews

Bangkok Airways

Bangkok Airways Reviews & Ratings: Is It the Right Airline for You?

Branding itself as “Asia’s Boutique Airline,” Bangkok Airways is a premium regional carrier that offers one of the most unique and luxurious domestic flying experiences in the world.

Operating out of Thailand, they are famous for owning and operating their own boutique airports (most notably the stunning Koh Samui Airport). Unlike budget carriers that dominate Southeast Asia, Bangkok Airways provides a full-service experience that includes meals, generous baggage, and an incredible perk: free lounge access for every single passenger.

Bangkok Airways at a Glance

  • Alliance: Independent (Codeshares with Emirates, Qatar, Cathay Pacific, etc.)
  • Frequent Flyer Program: FlyerBonus
  • Main Hubs: Bangkok Suvarnabhumi (BKK), Koh Samui (USM), Phuket (HKT)
  • Best For: Premium travel within Thailand, direct flights to Koh Samui, and regional hops to Cambodia and the Maldives.
Bangkok Airways

In-Flight Experience: What to Expect Onboard

Bangkok Airways proves that short flights don’t have to be uncomfortable.

The Boutique Lounge (For All Passengers)

Before you even board, Bangkok Airways sets itself apart. Every passenger holding a Bangkok Airways ticket gets free access to their Boutique Lounges. While Business Class has a separate “Blue Ribbon” lounge, standard Economy passengers still get comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, hot and cold beverages, and a spread of snacks (like their famous sticky rice treats) before their flight.

Economy Class

Onboard their Airbus A320s and ATR 72 turboprops, passengers are treated to generous legroom and colorful cabins. Despite flight times often being under an hour, the airline serves a complimentary hot meal or substantial snack box, alongside free coffee, tea, and juice.

Blue Ribbon Class (Business)

Available on select Airbus routes, Business Class offers standard wide recliner seats, priority check-in, an elevated hot meal service on real chinaware, and access to the premium Blue Ribbon Club lounge, which features made-to-order hot food.

Bangkok Airways Baggage Allowance & Policies (Updated 2026)

Bangkok Airways takes the stress out of packing by including checked luggage on all their standard fares.

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Fare Class Carry-On Allowance Checked Baggage Inclusion
Economy (Promo/Web Saver) 1 piece (Up to 5kg) 1 piece (Up to 20kg)
Economy (Standard/Flex) 1 piece (Up to 5kg) 1 piece (Up to 20kg)
Blue Ribbon (Business) 1 piece (Up to 5kg) Up to 40kg

2026 Carry-On Limits: While their checked bag policy is generous, their carry-on limit is quite strict at just 5kg. This is strictly enforced, especially on the smaller ATR 72 turboprop planes used for island routes.

Customer Service & Reliability

  • The Highs: The ground experience is unmatched for a regional airline. The free lounge access makes airport waiting actually enjoyable, and their proprietary open-air airport in Koh Samui feels like a tropical resort.
  • The Lows: Fares are notably higher than competitors. Because they own Koh Samui airport, they have a virtual monopoly on flights there, meaning direct flights to Samui are rarely cheap.

Pros & Cons of Flying with Bangkok Airways

Pros:

  • Free Boutique Lounge access for all Economy passengers.
  • Free 20kg checked baggage allowance.
  • Complimentary onboard meals and drinks.
  • Seamless connections from major international airlines via BKK.

Cons:

  • Ticket prices are significantly higher than budget alternatives like AirAsia.
  • Very strict 5kg limit on cabin baggage.
  • Only flies short-haul regional routes.

Have You Flown with Bangkok Airways?

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Bangkok Airways

Does everyone get lounge access on Bangkok Airways?

Yes! As long as you have a valid Bangkok Airways ticket for that day, you can access the Boutique Lounge (Economy) or the Blue Ribbon Club Lounge (Business/Elite Status) at participating airports.

Why are flights to Koh Samui so expensive?

Bangkok Airways actually built and owns the Koh Samui Airport. Because they control the landing slots, they maintain a near-monopoly on direct flights to the island, which keeps ticket prices at a premium.

Do you get food on Bangkok Airways?

Yes, Bangkok Airways provides complimentary meals or snack boxes and beverages on all their flights, even on the shortest 45-minute domestic routes.

Disclaimer: All information, policies, and details presented on this page are gathered from publicly available resources and are subject to change. Please verify directly with the airline before booking.