AOT studies return of arrival duty-free shops

Airports of Thailand (AOT) is studying whether to restore duty-free shopping for arriving passengers, alongside possible premium fast-track services at its six airports.

The review follows a 14.812 billion baht net profit for the first nine months of fiscal 2026, up 549.96 million baht, or 3.86%, from a year earlier. The period ran from October 2025 to June 2026.

AOT President Paweena Jariyathitipong said the state airport operator was pursuing measures to improve passenger services and raise revenue at Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, Chiang Mai, Mae Fah Luang Chiang Rai, Phuket and Hat Yai airports.

Passenger numbers rise despite lower revenue

AOT's six airports handled 605,838 flights in the nine-month period, a year-on-year increase of 0.61%. This included 340,118 international flights and 265,720 domestic flights.

Passenger traffic reached 99.03 million, up 1.84% from the same period a year earlier. International passengers accounted for 60.24 million of the total, while domestic travellers numbered 38.79 million.

Despite the traffic increase, AOT's total revenue fell 1.39% to 50.205 billion baht. Revenue from sales or services dropped by 707.73 million baht, with non-aeronautical income down 1.404 billion baht, or 5.56%.

Aeronautical revenue, meanwhile, rose by 696.56 million baht, or 2.72%. Total expenses fell by 815.44 million baht, or 2.55%, helping lift the company's net profit.

Fast-track options and more aircraft stands

Paweena said AOT was also considering premium services, including dedicated fast-track channels similar to those available at major international airports.

Such services would give passengers additional choices, speed their progress through airport terminals and help manage congestion. For frequent travellers, expatriates and business passengers, any future paid fast-track product could potentially reduce time spent in immigration or airport processing areas, although AOT has not set out pricing, eligibility or implementation details.

The operator is also examining improved aircraft-stand management to accommodate more flights.

Airport land development plans continue

AOT is inviting private firms with relevant expertise to invest in commercial projects around its airports, intended to generate longer-term income.

Existing developments include further leases of land for the Suvarnabhumi Airport service and support centre, as well as car-parking facilities at Chiang Mai Airport.

The company is seeking investment for a 723-rai site on Wat Si Wari Noi Road near Suvarnabhumi. Three to four potential investors, mainly in logistics, freight transport and warehouse management, have expressed interest.

AOT said the site could link cargo by road, water and air, and might cut air-freight export and import processing to around three hours once operational. It said it would continue improving airport services, safety and facilities as Thailand seeks to strengthen its position as an international aviation hub.

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17 August 2026