Photo courtesy of Wego Travel Blog

 

By Puntid Tantivangphaisal

 

Southeast Asia’s aviation industry is taking off this year, with major airports and emerging destinations recording impressive growth in seat capacity. Fuelled by surging travel demand, expanded airline networks, and strategic connectivity upgrades, the region is cementing its position as a global aviation powerhouse.

 

Leading the charge is Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport, adding a staggering 407,000 seats in January—a 16% increase from last year. Its dual role as a major tourist gateway and transit hub, combined with Thailand’s booming tourism recovery, solidifies its dominance in the region.

 

Malaysia’s Kuala Lumpur International Airport also saw substantial growth, with a 10% increase adding over 368,000 seats. The airport’s strategic connections across Southeast Asia and the Middle East continue to attract both business and leisure travellers.

 

Singapore’s Changi Airport remains a key global connector, adding nearly 336,000 seats in January, reflecting an 11% increase. Renowned for its extensive route network, Changi’s growth underscores its importance as a vital international gateway.

 

Bangkok’s Don Mueang Airport recorded a stunning 39% rise, with over 255,000 seats added. Catering to budget-conscious travellers, Don Mueang continues to thrive as a hub for low-cost carriers.

 

 

Phuket International Airport also soared, adding 194,200 seats—an impressive 31% increase—driven by its allure as a premier beach destination for European and Asian tourists.

 

Vietnam’s Phu Quoc Airport emerged as a star performer, with a jaw-dropping 185% surge in seat capacity, adding 108,000 seats. As a rising tropical hotspot, new routes and aggressive expansion have put Phu Quoc on the map, reported The Independent Singapore.

 

Indonesia’s Soekarno-Hatta Airport in Jakarta followed closely, with a 176% increase and 106,000 new seats, reflecting Indonesia’s revitalised tourism and business sectors.

 

With Bali, Hanoi, and Ho Chi Minh City also showing significant gains, Southeast Asia’s aviation market is soaring. As the region invests in connectivity and infrastructure, its airports are shaping the future of global travel, ensuring 2025 is a year to remember in the skies.

 

Source: The Thaiger

-- 2025-01-28

 

 

Was the seats used/paid for or not?

Meanwhile, Thai Airways is still mired in billions upon billions of debt. 

Ho chi Minh city's a s******* takes you at least two and a half hours to get your luggage and to get onto another flight. 

I know the bashers will be along soon, but I don't care.  I like Swampy.  I don't mind showing up 4 or 5 hours early (just in case) for my international flights.  Plenty to do, lots of good eats, and the eye candy is spectacular. 

 

And they have really upped their game on both ends of immigration.  In my past 21 monthly visits, I don't recall waiting over 20 minutes, and usually it's less than 5 minutes.  Even when the arrivals queue looks slammed, it moves fast.  And the security and departure immigration queues have really improved.

 

My only suggestion is to increase seating at the departure gates or require the airlines to open up their ramps to downstairs seating earlier.  Too many people sitting along the walls and against the glass.