Mizzima
The cost of air travel in Myanmar has reached record highs as domestic airlines struggle with a dual crisis: a severe domestic jet fuel shortage and a global supply shock triggered by Middle East tensions.
On 19 and 20 March, 2026, the nation’s primary carriers, Myanmar Airways International (MAI) and Myanmar National Airlines (MNA), announced emergency measures including a drastic reduction in baggage allowances and a nearly threefold increase in ticket prices.
MNA stated that passengers can purchase up to 10 kg of additional baggage only at check-in counters in Bangkok and Singapore airports. MAI has applied the 10 kg excess baggage limit across all its domestic and international routes.
“The usual 20–30 kg checked baggage allowance for flights from Chiang Mai to Yangon is no longer available,” he said.
The airlines have also temporarily suspended special baggage privileges for loyalty members, including Sky Smile (Ruby and Diamond) and MNACLUB members.
Ticket prices have surged significantly. One-way flights from Chiang Mai to Yangon now cost around 14,000 Thai baht, whereas previously this amount was typically the highest price for a round-trip ticket.
“Direct flights from Chiang Mai to Yangon now cost 14,000-baht one way. Previously, round-trip fares were about 8,000 baht in the low season and 15,000 baht in the high season,” the travel agent said.
The airlines have been refueling abroad due to domestic fuel shortages. However, some countries are prioritizing fuel for their own carriers, limiting supply. Myanmar airlines are reportedly still able to refuel in Malaysia and Singapore, but constraints remain.
As a result, online shoppers and small merchants are facing rising costs. Excess baggage fees on the Chiang Mai–Yangon route have reached approximately 500 baht per kilogram.
“A seven-kilogram bag is already like a suitcase. If you exceed that, you pay 500 baht per kilogram, starting from five kilograms,” the agent said.
The restrictions are also expected to drive up prices of consumer goods and basic food items that depend on air freight, especially as land border trade routes remain disrupted.
The global fuel shortage is linked to tensions in the Middle East, including the Iran–Israel conflict, which has affected oil transport through the Strait of Hormuz.
Domestically, fuel controls have made jet fuel difficult to obtain. Airlines have had to rely on refueling overseas, and flights may be canceled if sufficient fuel is unavailable.
Both MAI and MNA said the baggage restrictions will remain in place until further notice.
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