Phuket International Airport recorded a significant boost in flight movements and passenger numbers in 2025, signalling a robust recovery in aviation and tourism. According to Monchai Tanod, the airport director, last year's performance outshone 2024 and edged closer to the peak year of 2019, prior to the Covid-19 pandemic. These figures highlight Phuket's steadfast position as a crucial aviation hub and international tourism hotspot.

In 2025, the airport managed 106,581 flights, including 48,762 domestic and 57,819 international services, marking a 2.8% rise from 103,675 flights the previous year. Passenger traffic also climbed to 17.4 million, including 6.6 million domestic travellers and 10 million international visitors, which represents a 1.5% increase over 2024. Compared to 2019, the flight movements have recuperated to 92.22% of pre-pandemic levels, while passenger numbers rebounded to 96.44%.

Monchai emphasised that the growth signifies confidence in Phuket Airport as the "Gateway to the Andaman," with collaborative efforts between the airport and local agencies supporting elevated tourism demand, especially during peak seasons. The airport has significantly contributed to major events and festivals in the province, such as the 2025 Thailand Biennial Phuket, an international contemporary art exhibition.

A commitment to enhancing safety standards and operational efficiency under the "World Class Hospitality" concept is a part of the strategic preparation for sustainable long-term development.

On January 12, Phuket Airport celebrated the inaugural Belavia Airlines flight B28603 from Minsk. This service brought 281 tourists from Belarus, warmly welcomed by airport executives and staff at the International Terminal. The occasion further underscored the airport's expanding international reach and strategic importance in global tourism markets, according to the Bangkok Post.

Key Takeaways

• Phuket International Airport's growth reflects strong recovery in aviation and tourism.

• 2025 saw flight movements reach 106,581 with 17.4 million passengers handled.

• The airport is pivotal in hosting international events and expanding global connections.

  

Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2026-01-19

 

 

More flight and more tourists = more pollution and the expanding Phuket rubbish dump.

Huge delays Im led to believe to get through immigration, 1 hour sat on the plane after landed, then all the luggage was taken off the carosel and dumped in one huge pile where people had to sort out their own luggage, Almost 3 hours getting through immigration, many people missed their onward connections and were put down as a No Show,

Couldn't they get a better pic for the article that wasn't a poorly generated AI effort?