Last Updated on October 18, 2023
How to get to Mae Hong Son by airplane
If you travel by bus to Mae Hong Son, it is approximately 900 kilometers [14 hours] from Bangkok, or get a minivan from Chiang Mai via the shortest route of 240 kilometers [6 hours]. This is why we’re taking a flight to Mae Hong Son.
Nok Air cancelled flights, discontinued on April 19, 2023.
Fly with Nok Air
Bangkok Airways has plans to restart flights, starting August 2, 2023.
Fly with Bangkok Airways
Due to uncertainty travel by flights. Please plan to travel by car as an alternative.
The first option
Of course, I strongly advise flying to Mae Hong Son. Even though the prices appear to be higher than other modes of transportation, they provide safety, save time, and money.
You have a few options. One is by plane, and the other is by car. Flying is the most expensive, but it is also the quickest option. However, if you want to travel by car, renting a car with a driver is a great option.
Direct flight from Don Mueang – Mae Hong Son
Only Nok Air operates direct flights from Don Mueang to Mae Hong Son. The aircraft is a Q400 with a flight time of 1 hour and 30 minutes.
The schedule and number of flights will change according to the season. You can check directly from the Nok Air website.
Don Mueang > Mae Hong Son
| Departure | Arrival | Flight info |
|---|---|---|
| 12:00 | 13:30 | DD 154 |
Mae Hong Son > Don Mueang
| Departure | Arrival | Flight info |
|---|---|---|
| 14:00 | 15:30 | DD 155 |
Photo by : Amarase Pamarapa
From Bangkok to Chiang Mai
The flight time from Bangkok to Chiang Mai is only one hour. Even when you factor in the time it takes to get to and from the airport, it’s far more convenient than taking the train or bus.
Suvarnabhumi > Chiang Mai
There are 3 airlines that fly from Suvarnabhumi to Chiang Mai, and it takes 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Don Mueang > Chiang Mai
Low-cost airlines operate the majority of domestic flights, which take 1 hour from Don Mueang to Chiang Mai.
From Chiang Mai to Mae Hong Son
One way or return
Take a flight to Mae Hong Son for a quick and easy trip. Traveling by plane is the quickest option, if you’re willing to pay a higher price.
Duration: non-stop 45-minute flights from Chiang Mai to Mae Hong Son.
Bangkok Airways operates 3 flights per week between Chiang Mai and Mae Hong Son on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays by ATR 72-600 aircraft. Read more Fly with Bangkok Airways.
Bangkok Airways has not yet resumed service between Chiang Mai and Mae Hong Son. [We will be updated when available.]
Nok Air operates 3 flights per week between Chiang Mai and Mae Hong Son on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. The aircraft is a Q400. Read more about Fly with Nok Air.
In 2021, Nok Air will resume service from Chiang Mai to Mae Hong Son. Additionally, Don Mueang will provide a check-through.
A beautiful mountain scenery
One of the highlights is flying over Mae Hong Son. You will see breathtaking mountain scenery. Northern Thailand is covered by the foothills of Mt. Himalaya.
Please request a window seat at the airline counter when checking in. It is possible to do so, and the flight is entirely in economy class. Let’s see “What a Wonderful World.”
Choose an airline provider based on your budget and departure location. The cost of flying and the length of the flight differ depending on the airline.
Notes:
- Chiang Mai has international flights and some airlines have direct flights. They could be from one of your destinations.
- Thai Smile Airways is a low-cost carrier that operates out of either Don Muang International Airport or Suvarnabhumi Airport.
- Please double-check the total price before confirming your flight booking online. There are some options you added to the process, such as airport tax.
How to get the best fare
To get a better deal, book your flight in advance or buy a ticket as soon as possible. The cheapest flights cost around 1,000 THB, while the most expensive cost 3,000 THB or more.
Ticket prices vary depending on the season. The peak tourist season is between October and February, as well as during public holidays.
I prefer to travel by plane because it is both safe and comfortable. I can follow the exact itinerary and I have a mountain view from the air that only Mae Hong Son has.
How to connect flights
This is a real-life tip for domestic connecting flight must-carry items. When booking a connecting flight from/to, whether or not it is with the same airline.
Using the same airline
- Allow at least 2 hours between arrival and the next departure time.
- The booking process can be done for the same airlines.
- Each airline will notify you on how to check-thru.
Not the same airline
- Allow at least 3 hours between arrival and the next departure time.
- Book a single ticket for each flight separately.
- You must ensure that the flight will not be delayed.
- Check in at each airport, flight by flight.
Mae Hong Son is the ideal place to get away from the monotony of everyday life. It has a calm atmosphere and a wealth of natural resources.
Beyond the mountains
Airport Code:
- Suvarnabhumi (BKK)
- Don Mueang (DMK)
- Chiang Mai (CNX)
- Mae Hong Son (HGN)
