Quick Answer: Best Way from Yasothon to Roi Et Airport
Best overall: Private taxi or Grab car – door-to-door, 45–60 minutes, cost 650–900 THB (18–26 USD). Book via Grab app or your hotel. Cheapest: Local bus + songthaew – 1 hour 40 minutes, 130–200 THB (3.70–5.70 USD). Most convenient for families & groups: Private transfer – spacious, air-conditioned, direct to departures.
Roi Et Airport (IATA: ROI) is a small regional airport serving the Isaan region, with regular flights to Bangkok (Don Mueang) operated by Nok Air and Thai AirAsia. Yasothon city centre lies approximately 60–65 km southeast of the airport, making the journey straightforward.
Train & Rail Options from Yasothon to Roi Et Airport
Key fact: There is no direct railway between Yasothon and Roi Et. Thailand's northeastern rail network follows a different corridor, serving Ubon Ratchathani, Si Sa Ket, and Khon Kaen. However, a combined train + road journey is possible if you specifically want to travel by rail for part of the route.
Option 1: Yasothon → Ubon Ratchathani Station → Bus to Roi Et Airport (not recommended)
Yasothon to Ubon Ratchathani railway station is about 100 km (2 hours by road). From Ubon station you can catch a train heading north toward Khon Kaen or west toward Bangkok – but neither passes through Roi Et. You would then need to take a bus from Ubon back to Roi Et (another 2 hours). This option is time-consuming (5–7 hours total) and impractical for airport access.
Option 2: Yasothon → Maha Sarakham Station (via bus + train)
Maha Sarakham has a small station on the Khon Kaen–Ubon Ratchathani line. From Yasothon, take a bus to Maha Sarakham (approx. 90 km, 1.5 hours), then a train south toward Roi Et? Unfortunately, the line does not serve Roi Et town directly. You would still need a bus or taxi from the nearest stop (maybe Kranuan or Ban Phai) to Roi Et Airport.
Reality Check: Why Train Is Not Viable for This Route
| Route Segment | Time | Cost (THB) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yasothon → Ubon Ratchathani (bus) | 2 hr | 100–150 | Frequent departures |
| Ubon → nearest station to Roi Et (train) | 3–4 hr | 120–350 | Requires connection |
| Final leg to Roi Et Airport (taxi) | 1 hr | 400–600 | Mandatory |
| Total | 6–7 hr | 620–1,100 THB (18–31 USD) | Impractical vs direct taxi |
Source: State Railway of Thailand (SRT) – timetables and fare data.
Verdict: Train travel is not recommended for reaching Roi Et Airport from Yasothon. The direct road network is far more efficient. If you are a rail enthusiast, consider a separate trip on the scenic Ubon–Bangkok line.
Domestic Flight Information – Roi Et Airport (ROI)
Roi Et Airport is a civil airport located about 8 km west of Roi Et city centre. It serves as a regional gateway for northeastern Thailand. The airport has a single terminal handling domestic flights only.
Flights from Roi Et Airport
| Airline | Destination | Frequency | Flight Time | Approx. Fare (one-way) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nok Air | Bangkok (Don Mueang – DMK) | 3–4 daily | 1 hr 05 min | 1,200–2,800 THB (34–80 USD) |
| Thai AirAsia | Bangkok (Don Mueang – DMK) | 2–3 daily | 1 hr 10 min | 1,100–2,600 THB (31–74 USD) |
Both airlines operate Airbus A320 and Boeing 737 aircraft. Flights are usually on time; check the Airports of Thailand (AOT) website for real-time status.
Getting from Yasothon to Roi Et Airport – Total Door-to-Door Time
Many travelers underestimate the ground transport time. Here is the realistic total journey from Yasothon city centre to Bangkok arrival:
- Yasothon → Roi Et Airport (taxi): 50 min
- Check-in & security: 45 min (recommended 1 hour before domestic flight)
- Flight to Bangkok: 1 hr 10 min
- Baggage & exit: 20 min
- Total door-to-door: approx. 3 hours 5 min (excluding waiting)
Compare this with a direct bus from Yasothon to Bangkok (around 7–8 hours). Flying via Roi Et Airport saves 4–5 hours but costs more.
Alternative: Flying from Ubon Ratchathani Airport
If flights from Roi Et are full or expensive, consider Ubon Ratchathani Airport (UBP), which is about 110 km from Yasothon (2 hours by taxi). Ubon offers flights to Bangkok (both Don Mueang and Suvarnabhumi) with Thai Airways, Nok Air, AirAsia, and Bangkok Airways. More flight options but longer ground travel.
Source: FlightStats and airline official sites.
Bus & Minivan Services – Yasothon to Roi Et Airport
The most economical way to reach Roi Et Airport is by local bus, though it requires a transfer. Here is the detailed breakdown.
Route: Yasothon → Roi Et Bus Terminal → Airport
- Step 1: Take a local bus from Yasothon Bus Station to Roi Et Bus Terminal (Terminal 2). Buses run every 30–60 minutes from 05:30 to 18:00. Journey: 50–60 minutes. Fare: 80–120 THB (2.30–3.50 USD).
- Step 2: At Roi Et Terminal, change to a songthaew (red shared pickup truck) or local minivan heading to Roi Et Airport. Songthaews depart when full, roughly every 20–30 minutes. Journey: 20–30 minutes. Fare: 50–80 THB (1.40–2.30 USD).
- Total time: 1 hour 30 minutes to 1 hour 50 minutes.
- Total cost: 130–200 THB (3.70–5.70 USD) per person.
Minivan (Direct – Limited Availability)
Some minivan operators offer direct services from Yasothon to Roi Et Airport, but these are not scheduled daily. Check with 12Go.asia or local ticket agents. Fare is around 250–400 THB (7–11 USD) and journey time is about 1 hour 15 minutes if direct.
Bus vs Taxi – Comparison Table
| Factor | Local Bus + Songthaew | Minivan (if available) | Private Taxi |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total time | 1 hr 40 min | 1 hr 15 min | 50 min |
| Cost (per person) | 130–200 THB | 250–400 THB | 650–900 THB (total) |
| Comfort | Basic, shared | Moderate, AC | High, AC, private |
| Luggage space | Limited | Moderate | Ample |
| Flexibility | Fixed schedule | Limited | On-demand |
Sources: Department of Land Transport (DLT) and Rome2Rio route data.
Practical Tips for Bus Travelers
- Buy your bus ticket at the Yasothon station counter – no advance booking needed for local routes.
- Tell the driver you are going to "Roi Et Airport" so they can drop you at the right stop.
- Songthaews from Roi Et Terminal to the airport run until about 18:00. After that, take a motorcycle taxi (80–120 THB).
- Avoid bus travel during Songkran (April) and New Year (Dec 31–Jan 2) – services are crowded.
Taxi & Private Transfer – The Most Convenient Option
For most travelers, a private taxi or ride-hailing service (Grab) is the best balance of cost, comfort, and speed. Here is everything you need to know.
Grab Car (Recommended)
Grab operates in Yasothon and Roi Et. You can book a GrabCar from anywhere in Yasothon to Roi Et Airport. The app shows the fixed price before booking. Typical fare: 650–850 THB (18–24 USD). Journey: 45–60 minutes depending on exact pickup location.
Local Taxi (Street Hail or Hotel Booking)
Local taxis in Yasothon are not metered – you must negotiate the fare. From Yasothon town to Roi Et Airport, expect to pay 700–900 THB (20–26 USD). Agree on the price before starting the trip. Your hotel or guesthouse can help book a reliable driver.
Private Transfer Services
Several companies specialize in airport transfers in Isaan. Pre-book online via platforms like Klook or KKDay. A private sedan with driver costs 750–1,000 THB (21–28 USD). A minivan (for groups up to 8) costs 1,200–1,600 THB (34–46 USD).
When to Choose a Taxi / Private Transfer
- Late-night or early-morning flights: Buses do not run 24/7. A taxi is your only reliable option outside 05:30–18:00.
- Families with children or elderly travelers: Direct, air-conditioned, door-to-door service reduces stress.
- Heavy luggage: Buses have limited space; taxis offer ample boot room.
- Groups of 3–4 people: The cost per person becomes competitive with bus + songthaew.
- Business travelers or tight schedules: Time certainty is critical – a taxi eliminates waiting.
Price Comparison Table – Taxi Options
| Service | Est. Fare (THB) | Est. Fare (USD) | Booking Method | Vehicle |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GrabCar Standard | 650–850 | 18–24 | App | Toyota Vios / similar |
| GrabCar XL (6 pax) | 900–1,200 | 26–34 | App | SUV / MPV |
| Local taxi (negotiated) | 700–900 | 20–26 | Street / hotel | Sedan |
| Pre-booked private sedan | 750–1,000 | 21–28 | Online / hotel | Camry / Accord |
| Private minivan (1–8 pax) | 1,200–1,600 | 34–46 | Online / hotel | Minibus |
Source: Grab Thailand fare estimates and local driver quotes (2025).
Tickets & Cost Comparison – All Transport Options
This table summarizes every way to get from Yasothon to Roi Et Airport, including time, cost, and convenience factors. Use it to choose the option that fits your budget and schedule.
| Transport Mode | Total Time | Cost (THB) | Cost (USD) | Comfort | Luggage | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🏆 Private Taxi / Grab | 45–60 min | 650–900 | 18–26 | ★★★★★ | Excellent | Most travelers, families, speed |
| 🚕 Local taxi (negotiated) | 50–60 min | 700–900 | 20–26 | ★★★★☆ | Good | If Grab unavailable |
| 🚐 Minivan (direct, if available) | 1 hr 15 min | 250–400 | 7–11 | ★★★☆☆ | Moderate | Budget with some comfort |
| 💰 Bus + Songthaew (cheapest) | 1 hr 40 min | 130–200 | 3.70–5.70 | ★★☆☆☆ | Limited | Backpackers, low budget |
| 🚲 Motorcycle taxi (direct) | 50–60 min | 300–500 | 8.50–14 | ★★☆☆☆ | Minimal | Solo travelers, no luggage |
| 🚗 Rental car (self-drive) | 50 min | 1,200–1,800 (incl. fuel) | 34–51 | ★★★★★ | Excellent | Travelers exploring Isaan |
Where to Book Tickets
- Grab app: Download on iOS/Android – best for instant taxi booking.
- 12Go.asia: Book minivans and bus tickets online (nofollow).
- Bus tickets: Available at Yasothon Bus Station counter – no advance booking needed.
- Private transfer: Reserve via Klook or your hotel concierge.
Note: JR Pass is not relevant in Thailand. No rail pass covers this route.
Traveler Experience & Insider Tips – Yasothon to Roi Et Airport
Tip 1: Book Your Taxi in Advance for Early Flights
If your flight departs before 08:00, buses and songthaews will not yet be running. Book a GrabCar or private taxi the night before. Many travelers have reported waiting 30–45 minutes for a Grab after 10 PM – pre-booking avoids this.
Tip 2: Use the "Takkyubin" Luggage Service? Not Available Here.
Thailand does not have a door-to-door luggage delivery service like Japan's Takkyubin in the Isaan region. However, you can use Flash Express or Kerry Express to send luggage to your hotel in Bangkok if you are flying – but this takes 1–2 days. Best to carry your luggage with you.
Tip 3: Roi Et Airport Is Small – Arrive 1 Hour Before Departure
Roi Et Airport has one small terminal with basic facilities: a café, a souvenir shop, and free Wi-Fi. Check-in and security are fast – 45 minutes is usually enough, but 60 minutes is safer. There is no VIP lounge.
Tip 4: Avoid Songkran and New Year Week – Book Everything Early
During Songkran (April 12–16) and New Year (Dec 30–Jan 3), local buses are packed, taxi fares surge (up to 1,500 THB), and flights are full. Book your taxi or minivan at least 3 days in advance during these periods.
Tip 5: The Road Between Yasothon and Roi Et Is Good
Route 214 and Route 23 are well-paved, well-lit, and safe. The drive is straightforward with no difficult mountain passes. Even in rainy season (June–October), the road remains passable, though allow an extra 15 minutes for slower traffic.
Tip 6: What Locals Do
Many Yasothon residents heading to Bangkok use the VIP bus from Yasothon to Bangkok (Mo Chit) – it's cheaper than flying and takes 7–8 hours overnight. But if you specifically need to go via Roi Et Airport (e.g., you have a flight already booked), a shared minivan or Grab is the local favorite.
Tip 7: Language Help
English is not widely spoken at Roi Et Airport or by local taxi drivers. Have your destination written in Thai: "ไปสนามบินร้อยเอ็ด" (bpai sa-nam-bin Roi Et). Show this to the driver. The Grab app works in English.
Insights from TripAdvisor forums and local travel blogs (2024–2025).
FAQs – Yasothon to Roi Et Airport
1. Is there a direct bus from Yasothon to Roi Et Airport?
No, there is no direct bus that goes all the way to Roi Et Airport. You can take a bus from Yasothon to Roi Et Bus Terminal, then continue by songthaew or taxi to the airport. Total journey time is about 1 hour 40 minutes.
2. What is the cheapest way to get from Yasothon to Roi Et Airport?
The cheapest option is the local bus from Yasothon to Roi Et town (approx. 80–120 THB / 2.30–3.50 USD), followed by a songthaew or motorcycle taxi to the airport (50–80 THB). Total cost is around 130–200 THB (3.70–5.70 USD).
3. What is the fastest way to get from Yasothon to Roi Et Airport?
A private taxi or Grab car is the fastest option, taking 45–60 minutes directly from your door in Yasothon to the airport terminal. The cost is 650–900 THB (18–26 USD).
4. Are there taxis available late at night or early morning from Yasothon to Roi Et Airport?
Pre-booked private taxis are available 24/7 through services like Grab or local taxi companies. Street taxis are scarce after 10 PM, so advance booking is strongly recommended for late-night or early-morning departures.
5. Which transport option is best for a family with children?
A private taxi or Grab is the best choice for families, offering direct door-to-door service, air conditioning, and space for luggage. The cost (650–900 THB) is reasonable for a group of 3–4 and provides the most comfort and convenience.
6. Do I need to book a seat in advance for the bus from Yasothon to Roi Et?
For the local bus between Yasothon and Roi Et, advance booking is not required – simply buy a ticket at the station. However, if you are taking a minibus or VIP coach during Thai holidays (Songkran, Loi Krathong), booking one day ahead is wise.
7. Is it easy to get from Roi Et Airport back to Yasothon?
Yes, you can take a taxi from Roi Et Airport to Yasothon. Taxis are available outside the arrivals hall. The fare is similar to the reverse journey: 650–900 THB (18–26 USD). You can also use Grab or arrange a private transfer in advance.
8. Is there a shared taxi or minivan service between Yasothon and Roi Et Airport?
Shared taxis are not commonly available on this specific route. Your best options are a private taxi (exclusive to you) or the local bus to Roi Et town plus a short songthaew ride. Some guesthouses in Yasothon can help arrange shared transfers if they have multiple guests.