The Thai government has announced that Phuket International Airport will officially launch an automated passport control system for departing passengers on 13 June, aimed at reducing waiting times and improving passenger processing during busy travel periods.
Get today's headlines by email 
The move follows reports circulating on social media about congestion at immigration checkpoints at Phuket International Airport, as well as allegations that fees were being charged to facilitate faster passage through immigration. The government said it had ordered an investigation into the claims while accelerating measures to improve efficiency and passenger services.
Deputy Government Spokesperson Ploythalee Laksamisaengchan said authorities are working to address overcrowding, particularly during peak periods when multiple flights arrive or depart within a short timeframe.
To improve convenience for travellers, Phuket Immigration is preparing to officially open the outbound automated passport control system on 13 June. The new system is intended to speed up passport processing, reduce queue times and enhance the overall efficiency of immigration services in line with international standards.
Officials said the upgrade will help accommodate growing passenger and tourist numbers passing through Phuket International Airport, one of Thailand’s busiest gateways for international visitors.
Ploythalee stressed that immigration services at Phuket International Airport operate under the procedures and standards established by relevant government agencies. She also reiterated that there is no policy allowing additional payments in exchange for special privileges or expedited immigration processing.
The government said the airport remains focused on balancing convenience, speed and security while improving the passenger experience. The initiative forms part of wider efforts to strengthen airport operations and support continued growth in tourism and air travel.
ThaiRath reported that the automated passport control system is expected to become operational as scheduled on 13 June, providing departing passengers with a faster alternative to traditional immigration counters and helping ease pressure during periods of high passenger demand.
Picture courtesy of ThaiRath
Related story
Phuket-airport-denies-priority-immigration-fee-claims
Join the discussion? 
Already a member? 
Adapted by ASEAN Now ThaiRath 4 June 2026