Trang Airport Contract Terminated; Security Fund Seized Amid Delays

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The Airports Department has officially terminated its contract with Port and Marine Corporation (PAM) due to delays and deficiencies in the construction of a new passenger terminal at Trang Airport, southern Thailand. This decisive action resulted in the confiscation of PAM's security deposit amounting to 53 million baht.

The decision, sanctioned by Deputy Transport Minister Manaporn Charoensri, was announced by Director General Danai Ruangsorn. The Transport Ministry emphasised the necessity to swiftly identify an alternate contractor, aiming to meet the March 2025 deadline for the terminal's completion. Meeting this deadline is crucial to accommodating the growing influx of arrivals at Trang Airport.

Issues with the former contractor included severe rain leaks damaging ceilings and a lack of security leading to theft of power cables. Images of the infrastructure damage circulated widely, fuelling public concern. In response, the department has deployed additional security personnel to the site and Trang police have since apprehended those responsible for the thefts.

A committee formed on November 21 is charged with assessing the damage and preparing for a new contractor. With a 45-day timeline set, this task force is pivotal in keeping the project on track.

Danai remains optimistic, voicing confidence that despite setbacks, the department is committed to the 2025 completion date. The terminal stands as a significant upgrade to Trang Airport's facilities, pivotal for bolstering tourism and improving the passenger experience.