Phuket Airport is set to undergo a major expansion, investing 6 billion baht to construct a new terminal dedicated to international flights. This development aims to increase the airport's capacity from handling 12.5 million passengers annually to 18 million.

 

The airport’s director, Monchai Tanod, highlighted the urgent need for this expansion. Recent data shows that last month, Phuket Airport saw an influx of approximately 16,000 domestic passengers daily, reaching 90% of its pre-Covid-19 traffic levels. International flights were even busier, averaging 22,000 daily arrivals and departures, which is 7% higher than the numbers recorded in 2019 before the pandemic.

 

Monchai anticipates that passenger numbers this year will at least match the 2019 figure of 18 million. The airport is currently working on finalising the design for the new terminal. "If the design is completed this year, the project will be submitted to the National Environment Board for approval," he said.

 

The proposed terminal will significantly enhance passenger convenience and potentially open new routes and opportunities for airlines. Construction is expected to commence in 2026 and may take up to three years to complete.

 

Airports of Thailand (AoT) has allocated a 6-billion baht budget for this significant project. Monchai also mentioned a long-term vision to construct a dedicated terminal for seaplanes, reflecting growing tourist demands.

 

 

In related news, Nutthajit Oonsiem, director of the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s Asean, South Asia, and South Pacific marketing team, announced a celebratory welcome for the inaugural SG89 flight operated by Spice Jet. This flight route, connecting New Delhi directly to Phuket, marks Spice Jet’s first direct service in this segment and signifies growth in tourist traffic.

 

With daily flights by Spice Jet now in operation, Thailand expects to welcome approximately two million Indian visitors this year, contributing at least 79 billion baht in tourism revenue. Notably, Indian travellers currently constitute the third-largest group of arrivals at Phuket Airport.

 

Picture courtesy; Wikipedia

 

-- 2024-06-03

 

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So it is now Phuket Airports turn for the upgrade story, last month it was the Hua Hin Airport expansion. At least with an AOT airport it is realistic, as there are passengers and flights, not like DOT (Department of Airport) plans.

 

There are currently only six Thai airports under the supervision of AOT. Suvarnabhumi Airport, Don Mueang International Airport, Chiang Mai International Airport, Mae Fah Luang Chiang Rai International Airport, Phuket International Airport, and Hat Yai International Airport.

 

Remember that Phuket is proposed to have a second airport, which would be built in Phang Nga.

 

https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/se-asia/phuket-phang-nga-to-have-new-airports-as-thailand-looks-to-boost-tourism
 

 

 

Mass tourism is a complete enviromental disaster for the natural beauty of the island. It's such a great place that it needs quality tourists, if could just build up some infrustructure, cut out the scams, etc 

1 hour ago, DonniePeverley said:

Mass tourism is a complete enviromental disaster for the natural beauty of the island. It's such a great place that it needs quality tourists, if could just build up some infrustructure, cut out the scams, etc 

Phuket is the epicentre of the south... attracting millions of tourists and billions of baht... forget infrastructure, safety,  and sustainability, the only thing important to TAT and the government are rising tourist numbers to say we are on the road to economic recovery..

Perhaps just a few million of that could go towards a taxi terminal where the drivers have to queue and use meters. Also include a terminal for Grab. Suvarnabhumi taxi area has improved a lot over the last few years, so they should look at Bangkok and copy that model. 

Even after the last upgrade still nowhere to sit and eat food. You'd think they could put an eating area in somewhere so people don't have to sit at the gate eating there meals. Normally burgers, a crappy sandwich or cup noodles. They can really improve in this area.

And stop treating croissants like bread while you're at it 😠

Ok, so 22000 travelers arriving per day and then the only choice of transportation to reach your hotel, no matter where in Phuket, is by the road using the world famous Phuket taxis.... amazing Thailand!