Chiang Rai International Airport

Chiang Rai International Airport, named after the revered Princess Mother Mae Fah Luang, is not merely a transport hub but a welcoming gateway to the mysterious Golden Triangle. Here, surrounded by green hills, a calm atmosphere prevails, differing strikingly from the hustle and bustle of capital city hubs. From the very first minutes of arrival, travellers are enveloped by the charm of Northern Thailand: from the elegant interiors to the aroma of the famous local coffee.

Features and Advantages of the Airport

The main advantage of the airport is its compactness and clear navigation. A single terminal services all flights, allowing passengers to clear passport control and retrieve luggage in record time. It is practically impossible to get lost here, and the absence of long queues makes the start of the journey as comfortable as possible.

The terminal is designed using elements of traditional Lanna architecture, giving it a special local flavour. In the waiting halls and shops, one can not only rest but also purchase authentic souvenirs: northern tea, highland coffee, or handmade textile products. For those who value privacy, a business lounge with a decent level of service is provided.

The airport is distinguished by its convenient location. The drive to the city centre takes only 15–20 minutes, allowing for a quick transfer to your hotel. The region's main attraction — the famous White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) — can be reached by taxi or rental car in approximately 30–40 minutes. Official taxi counters and popular ride-hailing services are available for transfers.

For your convenience, we have compiled the main contact information for Chiang Rai International Airport (CEI). We recommend checking the data on official resources before your trip to ensure it is up to date.

• Official Website: chiangrai.airportthai.co.th (managed by Airports of Thailand, AOT)
• Inquiry Service Phone: +66 5379 8000 or AOT Contact Centre 1722 (available in English)
• Airport Address: 404 Moo 10, Rim Kok, Mueang Chiang Rai District, Chiang Rai 57100, Thailand
• Email: For general inquiries, it is recommended to use the central AOT email aot_contactcenter@airportthai.co.th or the feedback form on the website.
• Social Media: Official information can be found on the pages of the operating company "Airports of Thailand" (AOT) on popular social networks.
• Lost & Found: If you have left items in the terminal building, please contact the Lost & Found service at +66 5379 8132. In case of lost checked baggage, you must contact your airline's representative directly.
• Passenger Support Contacts: Information counters are located in the public areas of the departure and arrival halls. For any questions, you may also call the general airport phone number.

Getting to Chiang Rai International Airport (CEI), located just 8-10 kilometres from the centre of Chiang Rai city, is quite simple. Travellers have access to several convenient transport options suitable for any budget and travel style. On average, the trip from the city centre to the airport takes from 15 to 25 minutes depending on traffic conditions and the chosen mode of transport.

Public Transport

The most budget-friendly way to get to the airport is the Airport Bus. This bus runs between the airport and two bus terminals in the city. The fare is very affordable, making it an excellent choice for economical travellers. Check the schedule at the bus station as it may change. It is worth noting that there is no metro or railway connection to the airport in Chiang Rai.

Taxis, Tuk-tuks, and Transfers

For greater comfort, you can use a taxi. There is an official counter at the airport where you can book a taxi with a fixed price to the city centre (usually around 150-250 Baht). Mobile taxi-hailing apps, such as Grab, are also popular and allow you to see the trip cost in advance. For an authentic Thai experience, you can catch a tuk-tuk or songthaew (a covered pickup truck with benches), but always negotiate the price before the trip begins. Many hotels also offer a pre-booked transfer service, which is the most convenient, albeit more expensive, option.

Car Rental and Parking

If you plan to actively explore the northern provinces of Thailand, renting a car will be the ideal solution. Offices of both international (Avis, Hertz) and local rental companies operate directly in the arrivals terminal of Chiang Rai Airport. This provides freedom of movement and the ability to plan your route as you see fit. For those arriving at the airport in their own or rented vehicle, there is convenient parking with zones for short-term and long-term stays.

Recommendations for Travellers

The choice of transport depends on your priorities: the bus for maximum savings, a taxi or Grab for speed and comfort, and car rental for independent exploration. We recommend having a small amount of cash in Thai Baht with you, especially for paying fares on the bus or tuk-tuk. To avoid rushing, always leave for the airport with a little time to spare, especially during peak hours.

Chiang Rai International Airport (CEI) is distinguished by its compactness and convenience, making it very easy to navigate. The airport consists of one two-story terminal that serves both domestic and international flights. This structure completely eliminates the need for transfers between terminals and makes the pre-flight formalities process quick and straightforward.

The terminal layout is intuitively clear. The ground floor houses the arrival area. Here, passengers retrieve their luggage, pass through customs control (for international flights), and exit into the general hall where taxi counters, car rentals, tourist information, and several cafes are located. The second floor houses the departure area. Located here are airline check-in counters, security checkpoints, passport control, and the main waiting hall with boarding gates.

Thanks to the small size of the airport, completing all procedures usually does not take much time. It is recommended to arrive 1.5-2 hours before departure for domestic flights, and 2-3 hours for international ones. This time is generally more than sufficient for a calm check-in, baggage drop, and security screening. Departure and arrival halls are clearly separated, and signs in Thai and English help you orient yourself easily. For passenger convenience, the terminal features duty-free shops, souvenir stalls, and dining establishments where one can comfortably spend time waiting for a flight.

The history of Chiang Rai International Airport (CEI), officially named Mae Fah Luang – Chiang Rai International Airport, began in 1992. Its opening was a strategic step for the development of tourism and the economy in the northern part of Thailand. The airport was named in honour of the Princess Mother Srinagarindra, whom Thais affectionately call "Mae Fah Luang" (Royal Mother from the Sky) in recognition of her contributions to the development of the country's mountainous regions.

Initially, the airport was built to replace an old airfield and was designed to handle both domestic and a limited number of international flights. With the transition under the management of Airports of Thailand (AOT), its active growth began. The route network gradually expanded, and infrastructure was modernised to serve a larger number of passengers, making Chiang Rai more accessible to travellers from all over the world.

One of the most poignant moments in the airport's history occurred in the summer of 2018. During the operation to rescue children from the Tham Luang cave, Chiang Rai Airport became the main logistics hub. It was here that international rescue teams, military personnel, and volunteers arrived, and unique equipment was delivered from around the globe. This mission placed the airport on the world stage, demonstrating its ability to operate under extreme conditions.

In recent years, the airport has undergone several stages of reconstruction aimed at improving service quality and increasing capacity. Works were carried out to expand the terminal and modernise security systems. Today, it is a modern and convenient transport hub that continues to play a key role as a gateway to the cultural and natural heritage of northern Thailand.

Chiang Rai International Airport (CEI), despite its relatively small size, offers passengers all necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. The terminal is designed to ensure convenience and quick access to all key zones, from check-in to boarding.

For those feeling hungry, the airport has several cafes and restaurants where one can try both local Thai dishes and more familiar European snacks. In the shops, you can purchase souvenirs, products from local artisans, and travel essentials. The duty-free zone offers a standard assortment of perfumes, beverages, and confectionery.

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, allowing passengers to stay connected. Special stations are equipped for charging electronic devices. Travellers preferring a more private setting can use the services of the premium lounge, where beverages, snacks, and fresh press are offered.

Financial matters can be resolved directly at the airport: there are bank branches, ATMs, and currency exchange points where you can exchange money upon arrival or before departure. For emergencies, a medical centre is available within the terminal, ready to provide first aid.

The airport cares for all categories of passengers. Mother and child rooms are provided for travellers with children. Passengers with reduced mobility can count on special assistance, ramps, and equipped restrooms. Airport staff are always ready to assist with movement around the terminal and boarding.

Although there are no hotels directly on the airport grounds, several accommodation options to suit any taste and budget are located in the immediate vicinity. Specialised conference rooms are not provided in the terminal building, however, basic business services may be available in the VIP lounge.

At Chiang Rai International Airport (CEI), passengers will find a decent selection of establishments to grab a bite before departure or upon arrival. Although the airport cannot boast the scale of capital city hubs, it has everything necessary for a comfortable wait.

Most cafes and restaurants are concentrated in the general area before security control (landside), which is convenient for those seeing passengers off. Located here are several establishments offering both Northern Thai cuisine and more familiar European options. This is an excellent place to try the famous Khao Soi soup or the aromatic Sai Ua sausages one last time. Prices at the airport are generally higher than in the city but remain at an acceptable level, especially in establishments serving local food.

After passing through security (airside), in the departure zone, the selection is more modest and mainly represented by coffee shops and small snack points. This is an ideal option for those who want to quickly drink a coffee with fresh pastries or buy a sandwich and drinks for the journey. The opening hours of most establishments are tied to the flight schedule, so they open early in the morning and close after the departure of the last aircraft.

Passengers with specific dietary needs, such as vegetarians or those looking for gluten-free dishes, should study the menu carefully. In restaurants serving Thai cuisine, vegetarian options based on rice and vegetables can often be found. However, specialised Halal or vegan establishments may be absent, so if you have strict restrictions, it is better to carry a small supply of food with you.

To ensure your journey through Chiang Rai International Airport goes as smoothly as possible, we have prepared several useful tips. This airport serves northern Thailand and, although it is not as large as the capital's airports, knowing some nuances will help save time and prevent stress.

Arrival Time at the Airport. For international flights, it is recommended to arrive 2.5-3 hours before departure, and for domestic flights — 1.5-2 hours. Although the airport in Chiang Rai is relatively compact, it is better to have a buffer of time in case of unforeseen queues at check-in counters or security.

Check-in and Security. Most airlines offer online check-in, which allows you to avoid queues. Security checkpoints here are standard. Prepare liquids in advance (in containers up to 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag) and electronic devices to speed up the screening process.

Choosing a Seat on the Plane. If you are flying during daylight hours, choose a window seat to enjoy views of the picturesque mountains and valleys of northern Thailand during takeoff or landing. An aisle seat is suitable for those who want the freedom to stand up and stretch their legs during the flight.

Hand Luggage. Be sure to pack documents, money, valuables, portable electronics, and necessary medication in your hand luggage. It is prohibited to carry sharp objects, weapons, flammable liquids, and containers with liquids exceeding 100 ml. Please note that the export of certain items, such as Buddha statues of a certain size, requires a special permit.

Passengers with Connections. If you have a connecting flight, especially when transferring from an international to a domestic flight (for example, in Bangkok), check with the airline whether you need to collect your luggage and check it in again. Typically, such a route requires passing through passport control at the first airport of arrival.

Customs Control. Upon arrival in Thailand, proceed through the "Green Channel" if you have no goods to declare. If you are carrying items exceeding duty-free limits (for example, alcohol, tobacco, or expensive purchases), you must pass through the "Red Channel". We recommend familiarising yourself with the country's current customs regulations in advance.

Saving Time and Money. To save money, book a taxi or transfer from the airport in advance online or use mobile apps to order a car — this is often more economical than taking a taxi on the spot. Prices for food and drinks at the airport are higher than in the city, so you can have a snack before arriving or bring permitted snacks with you.

In Case of Flight Delay. First, contact your airline representative for information on the flight status and possible options (rescheduling to another flight, provision of meals or a hotel in case of a long delay). Remain calm and check the terms of your travel insurance — it may cover such cases.