Thailand is accelerating infrastructure upgrades at Hua Hin Airport in Prachuap Khiri Khan province, with a road tunnel and runway safety area expansion scheduled for completion by August 2026. The project aims to meet international safety standards, secure an operating certificate and attract foreign airlines to launch direct international services, supporting tourism and economic growth in the region.
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The development forms part of the government’s wider strategy to stimulate regional economies and strengthen tourism in secondary cities. Authorities aim to position Hua Hin as a major gateway for the upper South and the Gulf of Thailand coast, while creating new opportunities for local businesses and communities.
Deputy Government Spokesperson Lalida Periswiwatana said on 30 May 2026 that the government, under Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, was continuing efforts to improve transport and tourism infrastructure across the country. The initiative is intended to increase the potential of regional destinations and encourage greater income distribution beyond major cities.
Deputy Transport Minister Phattrapong Phattraprasit recently visited Prachuap Khiri Khan to monitor progress on airport development projects. During the visit, he instructed the Department of Airports to accelerate construction of the road tunnel and the expansion of the safety area around runway 16 to ensure completion by August 2026.
The upgrades are designed to bring the airport into line with the safety requirements of the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT). Officials have also been directed to address remaining safety issues and expedite the application process for a public aerodrome operating certificate, which is considered essential for attracting international carriers.
Authorities are working with government agencies, tourism operators, airlines and hotel businesses to support the launch of direct international routes. The focus is on attracting high-potential visitors, long-stay travellers and health tourism markets, in line with government efforts to strengthen higher-value tourism.
Discussions are also under way on integrated tourism packages covering flights, accommodation and travel services. Preparations are being made by immigration, customs, plant quarantine and animal quarantine authorities to ensure readiness for future international operations.
Hua Hin Airport currently has the capacity to handle 300 passengers per hour. It features a 2,100 x 35 metre runway and an apron capable of accommodating two A320 or B737-800 aircraft simultaneously.
Between 2018 and 2020, the airport operated international services on the Kuala Lumpur-Hua Hin-Kuala Lumpur route before flights were suspended during the COVID-19 pandemic. Thai AirAsia currently continues to operate services between Chiang Mai and Hua Hin.
Nation reported that Lalida said the government believes the airport upgrade will help stimulate the economy, support tourism, create jobs and generate income for local residents and businesses, while helping Hua Hin develop into a fully fledged international destination in the future.
Picture courtesy of The Nation
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Adapted by ASEAN Now Nation 1 June 2026
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