Udon Thani Airport officially became an international airport on Thursday, September 4, after being added to Thailand's list of airports permitted to handle overseas flights. The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) issued a new announcement setting out the airports authorised to provide international flight services, replacing the previous list. Udon Thani's addition brings the national total to 11 airports. Thailand's 11 international airports The other airports named by CAAT are Don Mueang, Suvarnabhumi, Chiang Mai, Mae Fah Luang-Chiang Rai, Krabi, Phuket, U-Tapao Rayong Pattaya, Hat Yai, Samui and Surat Thani. Udon Thani's status took effect on September 4, allowing it to provide international flight services. The move could open the way for more direct overseas routes from the northeastern city, reducing the need for passengers to travel via Bangkok or other major hubs. For foreigners living in Udon Thani, nearby provinces or across the wider Isaan region, future international services could make overseas travel more convenient. It may also offer an easier arrival point for visitors heading to the northeast. Kunming flight due to begin next week One international route is already planned. Lucky Air is scheduled to launch direct flights between Udon Thani and Kunming, China, on September 8. The Department of Airports will support the new Udon Thani-Kunming service by giving Lucky Air a 50% discount on aircraft landing and parking fees for one year. The airline will operate the route with a Boeing 737-800, which has capacity for 189 passengers. The new link is expected to give travellers in Udon Thani and elsewhere in northeastern Thailand another option for international travel from a regional airport. Picture courtesy of Udon Thani Airport Related story Kunming-Udon-Thani-direct-flights-start-8-September Join the discussion? 5 September 2026
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