About Thai Lion Air
Thai Lion Air (IATA: SL, ICAO: TLM) is a Thai low-cost carrier headquartered in Don Mueang District, Bangkok, Thailand. The airline is a subsidiary of Indonesia's Lion Air Group, one of Southeast Asia's largest airline groups. Thai Lion Air operates scheduled domestic and international flights from its hub at Don Mueang International Airport (DMK), connecting Thailand to destinations across Asia including China, Japan, South Korea, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Taiwan, and Nepal.
Since launching operations in December 2013, Thai Lion Air has grown rapidly to become one of Thailand's leading budget carriers. The airline's motto, "Freedom to Fly," reflects its mission to make air travel affordable and accessible for everyone. With an all-Boeing narrow-body fleet and a comprehensive route network spanning over 50 destinations in 11 countries, Thai Lion Air offers Malaysian travellers a cost-effective gateway to Thailand and beyond.
Airline Overview and History
Thai Lion Air was established as part of the Lion Air Group's strategy to expand its low-cost operations into Thailand, tapping into the country's booming tourism market and competing with established carriers such as Thai AirAsia and Nok Air. Here are the key milestones in the airline's history:
- 2013: Thai Lion Air launched its inaugural flight on 4 December 2013 on the Bangkok Don Mueang to Chiang Mai route, with full commercial services commencing the following day.
- 2013: The airline concluded an interline agreement with fellow Lion Air Group subsidiary Malindo Air (now Batik Air Malaysia), enabling connectivity between Thailand and Malaysia.
- 2014–2016: Rapid domestic expansion followed, with routes added to major Thai cities including Phuket, Hat Yai, Krabi, Chiang Rai, and Udon Thani.
- 2017–2018: Thai Lion Air expanded internationally, launching routes to China, Singapore, and other regional destinations from Bangkok Don Mueang.
- 2019: The airline reached its pre-pandemic peak with a fleet of over 30 aircraft and an extensive domestic and international network.
- 2020–2021: Like all carriers, Thai Lion Air scaled back operations during the COVID-19 pandemic, grounding most of its fleet and suspending international services.
- 2022–2023: The airline progressively resumed routes as travel restrictions eased, rebuilding its network across Southeast Asia and Northeast Asia.
- 2024–2025: Thai Lion Air expanded aggressively into China, Japan, and India, adding routes to cities such as Changsha, Nagoya, Osaka, Mumbai, Delhi, and Bengaluru. The fleet grew to approximately 30 Boeing 737 aircraft.
- 2026: The airline continues to expand, with increased capacity on Japan and Taiwan routes using Boeing 737-900ER aircraft.
Thai Lion Air's hub at Don Mueang International Airport provides convenient access for budget travellers, as DMK is well served by public transport and offers lower airport charges compared to Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport. The airline operates from Terminal 1 (International) and Terminal 2 (Domestic) at DMK.
Fleet and Aircraft
Thai Lion Air operates an all-Boeing narrow-body fleet, focusing exclusively on the Boeing 737 family. This single-type fleet strategy helps the airline maintain lower operating and maintenance costs. As of 2025, the fleet comprises approximately 30 aircraft across two variants:
- Boeing 737-800: The backbone of the fleet, with around 21 aircraft in service. Each 737-800 is configured in a single-class economy layout with 189 seats. The aircraft has a maximum range of 5,765 km and cruises at Mach 0.785.
- Boeing 737-900ER: Around 9 aircraft in service, available in two configurations seating either 215 or 220 passengers in economy class. The 737-900ER offers a slightly longer fuselage and greater range of 5,990 km, making it ideal for longer international routes to Japan, South Korea, and India.
All aircraft feature a standard 3-3 seating arrangement in economy class. Thai Lion Air continues to modernise its fleet, with plans to receive additional Boeing 737 aircraft to support route expansion. The airline has committed to remaining an all-Boeing operator, with no plans to introduce wide-body or Airbus aircraft into its fleet.
Top Flight Routes
Thai Lion Air connects Bangkok Don Mueang to a wide network of domestic and international destinations. For Malaysian travellers, the airline provides affordable options for reaching Thailand and connecting onward to other Asian cities. Here are some of the most popular routes:
International Routes from Bangkok (DMK)
- Bangkok to Singapore (SIN): A popular Southeast Asian route connecting Thailand's capital with the Lion City, ideal for both leisure and business travellers.
- Bangkok to Penang (PEN): Direct flights connecting Bangkok Don Mueang to Penang, Malaysia, perfect for Malaysian travellers heading to Thailand or vice versa.
- Bangkok to Tokyo Narita (NRT): A key route for travellers exploring Japan, operated with Boeing 737-900ER aircraft up to six times weekly.
- Bangkok to Osaka Kansai (KIX): Connecting Thailand with Japan's second-largest city, with up to four weekly flights.
- Bangkok to Seoul Incheon (ICN): Linking Bangkok with South Korea's capital, popular among both Thai and international tourists.
- Bangkok to Taipei (TPE): Regular services to Taiwan's capital, a major transit hub in East Asia.
- Bangkok to Jakarta (CGK): Connecting two of Southeast Asia's largest cities, with convenient links within the Lion Air Group network.
- Bangkok to Bali Denpasar (DPS): A popular leisure route for beachgoers and holiday travellers.
- Bangkok to Mumbai (BOM): Part of Thai Lion Air's growing India network, connecting Thailand with India's financial capital.
- Bangkok to Delhi (DEL): Another key India route linking Bangkok with India's national capital.
Popular Domestic Routes
- Bangkok to Chiang Mai (CNX): One of Thailand's busiest domestic routes, perfect for exploring northern Thailand.
- Bangkok to Phuket (HKT): A must-fly route for beach lovers heading to Thailand's most famous island resort destination.
- Bangkok to Krabi (KBV): Gateway to the stunning Andaman Sea islands and Railay Beach.
- Bangkok to Hat Yai (HDY): Connecting Bangkok with southern Thailand, convenient for travellers heading to the Thai-Malaysian border region.
- Bangkok to Chiang Rai (CEI): Ideal for visiting the White Temple, Blue Temple, and the Golden Triangle area.
Malaysian travellers can easily connect through Bangkok Don Mueang to reach domestic Thai destinations. Browse flights from Kuala Lumpur to Bangkok or explore routes from Penang to Bangkok on Traveloka. You can also find great deals on flights to popular Thai destinations like Kuala Lumpur to Phuket, Kuala Lumpur to Singapore, and Kuala Lumpur to Bali.
Baggage Allowance and Policies
Thai Lion Air's baggage policy varies depending on the fare type and route. Here is a detailed breakdown of what passengers can expect:
Cabin Baggage
- Weight: Maximum 7 kg per passenger.
- Dimensions: Must not exceed 56 cm x 36 cm x 23 cm.
- Additional items: Passengers may also carry one laptop bag or one handbag in addition to the main cabin bag.
- Liquids: All liquids, aerosols, and gels must be in containers of 100 ml or less, placed in a single transparent resealable plastic bag of no more than 1 litre capacity.
Checked Baggage by Fare Type
- Lion Promo (domestic and international): No free checked baggage included. Passengers must purchase baggage separately.
- Lion Economy (domestic routes): 10 kg free checked baggage allowance.
- Lion Economy (international routes): 20 kg free checked baggage allowance.
Excess and Prepaid Baggage
Passengers who need additional baggage beyond their free allowance can pre-purchase extra weight online at discounted rates. Here are the prepaid baggage rates:
- Domestic routes: From THB 375 for an additional 5 kg, up to THB 2,105 for an additional 45 kg.
- International routes: From THB 1,000 for an additional 5 kg, up to THB 5,600 for an additional 45 kg.
- Airport excess baggage: THB 350 per kg for domestic routes and THB 525 per kg for international routes.
Important Restrictions
- Total checked baggage allowance must not exceed 45 kg.
- Each individual piece of luggage must not weigh more than 32 kg.
- Maximum dimensions per piece: 81 cm (height) x 119 cm (width) x 119 cm (depth).
- Pre-purchasing baggage online is significantly cheaper than paying excess fees at the airport, so plan ahead to save.
Check-in Guide
Thai Lion Air offers multiple check-in options to ensure a smooth travel experience. Here is everything you need to know:
Airport Counter Check-in
- Domestic flights: Check-in counters open 2 hours before departure and close 45 minutes before departure.
- International flights: Check-in counters open 3 hours before departure and close 1 hour before departure.
- China routes (Chongqing/Chengdu): Check-in closes 2 hours before departure.
- Other China routes: Check-in closes 1 hour 30 minutes before departure.
Online Check-in (Web Check-in)
- Availability: Opens 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Closing time: Closes 45 minutes before departure.
- Note: If you have checked baggage, you must still visit the Lion Air check-in counter at the airport to drop off your bags after completing web check-in.
- Access: Available via the Thai Lion Air website or the mobile app.
Passengers are advised to arrive at Don Mueang International Airport with ample time to clear security, especially during peak travel periods. You can check real-time flight status and updates on the Traveloka Flight Status page before heading to the airport.
Cabin Classes and In-Flight Experience
Thai Lion Air operates a single-class cabin configuration across its entire fleet, offering economy class seating on all flights.
Economy Class
- Seating: Standard 3-3 configuration on all Boeing 737-800 and 737-900ER aircraft.
- Capacity: 189 seats on the 737-800 and 215 to 220 seats on the 737-900ER, depending on configuration.
- Legroom: Standard economy class seat pitch consistent with other low-cost carriers in the region.
In-Flight Meals
As a low-cost carrier, Thai Lion Air does not include complimentary meals in the base fare. However, passengers can enjoy a selection of meals and snacks through the airline's onboard purchase options or by pre-ordering through the Lion Meal service:
- Pre-order meals: Book meals in advance through the Thai Lion Air website or app for a wider selection and guaranteed availability.
- Onboard purchases: A variety of snacks and beverages are available for purchase during the flight.
- Important: Passengers are not permitted to consume outside food and drinks on board.
Seat Selection
Thai Lion Air offers a paid seat selection service called Lion Seat, allowing passengers to choose their preferred seat in advance. Options typically include standard seats, extra legroom seats, and front-row seats for quicker boarding and disembarkation.
Passenger Policies and Special Services
Thai Lion Air has specific policies in place for various passenger categories to ensure safety and comfort for all travellers.
Children and Infants
- Infants (8 days to under 2 years): Must be accompanied by at least one able-bodied adult. Infants require a paid ticket at a fixed base fare. Infants are not entitled to a free baggage allowance and do not receive a separate seat.
- Children (2 to 11 years): Travel at the standard fare and receive a seat and full baggage allowance according to the fare type purchased.
- Unaccompanied minors (domestic): Children aged 5 to 12 may travel unaccompanied on domestic flights with the airline's unaccompanied minor service.
- Young passengers (international): Passengers aged 13 to 16 may travel alone on international flights.
Pregnant Passengers
- Up to 28 weeks: Permitted to travel. Must sign a Release and Indemnity Form at check-in.
- 28 to 35 weeks: Must present a medical certificate from a doctor confirming fitness to fly, dated no more than 7 days before the scheduled departure. Must also sign the Release and Indemnity Form.
- Above 35 weeks: Carriage is refused for safety reasons.
- All pregnant passengers must advise the airline of their pregnancy progress and present prenatal care documentation at the time of booking and at the check-in counter.
Special Assistance
- Wheelchair service: Available at a standard fee of THB 600 for one-time use. Must be pre-booked at least 48 hours in advance by contacting the call centre at +66 2 529 9999 or via email.
- Medical equipment: Passengers requiring medical equipment on board should contact the airline at least 48 hours before departure to arrange approval and assistance.
Reschedule, Cancellation, and Refund
- Name changes and re-routing: Thai Lion Air tickets cannot be renamed or re-routed once issued.
- Date or time changes: Permitted if made at least 4 hours before departure. A rebooking fee of THB 750 applies, plus any fare difference.
- Refunds: Refund eligibility depends on the fare type purchased. Non-refundable fares may be eligible for travel credit subject to the airline's terms and conditions.
Frequent Flyer Programme
Thai Lion Air participates in the Lion Air Group's loyalty programme known as the Lion Passport Club. This frequent flyer programme allows passengers to earn points when flying with any Lion Air Group airline, including Thai Lion Air, Lion Air, Batik Air, and Batik Air Malaysia.
Key Features of Lion Passport
- Earning points: Members earn Lion Points based on flight distance, fare class, and membership tier when travelling on Thai Lion Air and other Lion Air Group carriers.
- Redeeming points: Accumulated points can be redeemed for flight tickets, seat upgrades, and other travel-related benefits across the Lion Air Group network.
- Membership tiers: The programme features multiple membership levels, with higher tiers offering enhanced benefits such as priority boarding, additional baggage allowance, and priority check-in.
- Partner benefits: Members may also earn and redeem points through selected partner services.
To join the Lion Passport Club, passengers can sign up through the Lion Air Group's official website or at the airport. Membership is free, and points begin accumulating from the first eligible flight.
Why Book Thai Lion Air Flights on Traveloka
Traveloka is one of Southeast Asia's leading travel platforms, offering Malaysian travellers a seamless and secure way to book Thai Lion Air flights. Here are the top reasons to book through Traveloka:
- Competitive fares: Traveloka aggregates prices from multiple airlines, allowing you to compare Thai Lion Air fares with other carriers to find the best deal for your trip.
- Flexible payment options: Pay using your preferred method including credit and debit cards, online banking, and popular Malaysian e-wallets such as Touch 'n Go eWallet, Boost, GrabPay, and ShopeePay.
- Instant e-tickets: Receive your electronic ticket immediately after booking, with all flight details accessible through the Traveloka app.
- 24/7 customer support: Traveloka's multilingual support team is available around the clock to assist with booking changes, cancellations, and any travel enquiries.
- Price alerts: Set up fare alerts for your preferred Thai Lion Air route and receive notifications when prices drop, helping you secure the cheapest tickets.
- Bundled deals: Combine your Thai Lion Air flight with hotel accommodation for additional savings through Traveloka's flight and hotel bundle packages.
- Traveloka Points: Earn loyalty points on every booking that can be redeemed for discounts on future travel purchases.
Thai Lion Air Promotions and Deals on Traveloka
Traveloka regularly features exclusive promotions and special deals for Thai Lion Air flights. Here are some tips for finding the best offers:
- Check the Traveloka Promos page: Visit the promotions section on the Traveloka app or website regularly for flash sales, seasonal discounts, and voucher codes applicable to Thai Lion Air bookings.
- Book during sale events: Major sale events such as Traveloka Birthday Sale, Year-End Sale, and Raya Sale often feature deeply discounted Thai Lion Air fares on popular routes to Bangkok, Phuket, and other Thai destinations.
- Use promo codes: Look out for exclusive promo codes shared through Traveloka's newsletter, social media channels, and partner promotions for additional savings.
- Early bird deals: Booking your Thai Lion Air flights well in advance — ideally 4 to 8 weeks before departure — often yields the lowest fares.
- Midweek travel: Flying on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, or Saturdays typically costs less than peak travel days such as Fridays and Sundays.
- Off-peak season: Travel during Thailand's shoulder seasons (May to June and September to October) for lower fares and fewer crowds.
- Set price alerts: Use Traveloka's Price Alert feature to monitor fare changes on your desired Thai Lion Air route and book when prices are at their lowest.
- Bundle flights and hotels: Save more by booking your Thai Lion Air flight together with hotel accommodation through Traveloka's package deals.
How to Book Thai Lion Air Tickets on Traveloka
Booking your Thai Lion Air flight on Traveloka is quick and straightforward. Follow these simple steps:
- Visit Traveloka: Open the Traveloka app on your smartphone or go to www.traveloka.com on your browser.
- Select Flights: Tap or click on the Flights tab on the homepage.
- Enter your trip details: Choose your departure city (e.g., Kuala Lumpur), destination (e.g., Bangkok Don Mueang), travel dates, number of passengers, and cabin class.
- Search and compare: Click the Search button to view available Thai Lion Air flights alongside other airlines. Use the filter options to sort by price, departure time, or duration.
- Select your flight: Choose your preferred Thai Lion Air flight and review the fare details, baggage allowance, and flight schedule.
- Add extras: Optionally add travel insurance, extra baggage, seat selection, or meal pre-orders to your booking.
- Enter passenger details: Fill in the required passenger information including full name (as per passport or IC), contact details, and travel documents.
- Choose your payment method: Select from a wide range of payment options including credit or debit cards, online banking, Touch 'n Go eWallet, Boost, GrabPay, or ShopeePay.
- Confirm and pay: Review your booking summary and complete the payment. Your e-ticket will be sent to your email and will also be available in the Traveloka app.
- Manage your booking: Use the Traveloka app to view your itinerary, check flight status, or make changes to your booking at any time.
Start planning your trip today and search for affordable Thai Lion Air flights from Malaysia to Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai, and many more exciting destinations across Asia on Traveloka.