Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post

 

Phuket International Airport is projected to receive over 16 million passengers this year, thanks to increased international arrivals and new direct flight offerings from Europe and Asia. During China's Golden Week from October 1 to 8, the airport experienced a 60% increase in passenger traffic compared to last year, with an average of 29 flights a day. This surge brought in 34,375 passengers, approximately 65% of pre-Covid levels.

 

In recent years, the airport has steadily regained traction, primarily fueled by visitors from Russia, China, and other countries including India, South Korea, and Australia. The airport averages 280–300 flights daily, predominantly during the low season. Expectations are high for the high season, with daily flights potentially increasing to 380-400, and the airport's maximum capacity reaching 600.

 

Director Monchai Tanode highlighted that two new airlines will commence operations in the high season. Centrum Air will offer direct flights from Uzbekistan starting October 31, while Air France will connect Paris to Phuket from November 28. Regular operations by airlines from Saudi Arabia, Israel, and Iran will continue, ensuring a diverse influx of travelers.

 

Preparations for the high season include infrastructure upgrades at the airport, enhancing runways, taxiways, and parking bays to accommodate 25 aircraft per hour. The airport has also strengthened coordination with the Immigration Bureau to expedite passenger processing. A new bus terminal is operational, providing connections to major destinations, supplemented by ride-hailing services and metered taxis.

 

Phuket Airport plans to expand further, with a new international terminal covering 100,000 square meters set to break ground. Expected for completion by 2029, this expansion aims to enhance capacity and passenger experience, with restroom upgrades scheduled for 2026.

 

Key Takeaways

• Phuket Airport expects to see over 16 million passengers in 2023.
• New direct flights from Asia and Europe boost international arrivals.
• Long-term plans include a new terminal and upgraded facilities by 2029.

 

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-10-10

 

 

Is this 16 million another wild guess

2 hours ago, Aussie999 said:

Is this 16 million another wild guess

Optimism at it's best

See you in November.  

Must be busier than Suvarnabhumi. I came through a couple days ago . Very quiet I was through immigration and  collected bags in 20 mins. I was the only one on the Don Mua g shuttle 

On 10/10/2025 at 10:54 AM, snoop1130 said:

This surge brought in 34,375 passengers, approximately 65% of pre-Covid levels.

 

Where would they sleep. on the bech ?