Could not board flight LHR to BKK without departing ticket
I have been flying in and out of Thailand for 13 years. I have family, property, and bank accounts in Thailand. I have never overstayed. I have been refused check-in for the first time. I am a foreign aid worker and often don't know my departure dates until a few days or a week before departure – hence often no outbound ticket. I've never had a problem with Thailand immigration. I was fortunately able to make a booking which satisfied the airline, and I could board, then cancelled booking the next day. Is there a better way to manage this?
Best Answer
Since the government has started cracking down on folks who misuse the system, airlines have become more careful of their responsibility.
Just about every Thai visa issued to foreigners has a time component, a limit on how many days you can stay (which I assume you know since you mentioned never overstaying). Without proof of exiting the country before this deadline, airlines are required by law to prohibit boarding. If the airline allows you to travel there and then you are denied entry, the airline can get fined and have to fly you home at their expense. In years past the government was lax about the rules, so the airlines were lax, but now the government is being more strict.
Probably your best course of action is to buy a fully refundable outbound ticket and then cash it in or change the date once you know your real date.
Another option might be to buy a cheap round trip (it sounds like you are buying one ways, which often are more expensive than discounted R/T), then not use the return leg or perhaps change the date, paying the change fees (which may still be a cheaper option than two one way tickets).
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Does Thailand require onward ticket?
"Foreigners entering Thailand by any means under the Tourist Visa Exemption category are required at the port of entry to have proof of onward travel (confirmed air, train, bus or boat tickets) to leave Thailand within 30 days of the arrival date (otherwise a tourist visa must be obtained)."Can I change my return flight with Thai Airways?
You can rebook new trip by your own with a wide choice of options to meet your needs without penalty fee by 3 easy steps via our website or mobile application at least 72 hours before departure.How do I cancel my flight with Thai Airways?
In case of cancellations/amendments/refunds, please send your request to roh.customerservices@thaiairways.com, as these cannot be carried out online. It is unlikely that we will change or cancel your booking once it is confirmed. If we do make changes then we will inform you as soon as we reasonably can.OUR BIGGEST TRAVEL MISTAKE EVER? (Flying to Thailand 2022)
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