Thailand Announces New £171 Million International Airport in Phuket
ID 40871402 | Phuket Thailand Airport © Iryna Rasko | Dreamstime.com
Thailand has unveiled plans for the construction of a new £171 million international airport in Phuket, aimed at addressing growing passenger demand and alleviating congestion at the island’s existing airport. The project, officially named Andaman International Airport, will serve as Phuket’s second international airport, enhancing connectivity for both domestic and international travelers.
Project Details and Timeline
The new Andaman International Airport will be located approximately 25 miles north of Phuket International Airport (HKT) and will feature two parallel runways, a modern terminal, and state-of-the-art air traffic control systems. Key project details include:
- Investment: 75 billion Thai baht (£171 million).
- Passenger Capacity: Expected to accommodate 22.5 million passengers annually, nearly doubling the capacity of the existing Phuket International Airport (HKT), which is currently operating near its 12.5 million annual passenger limit.
- Construction Start: Scheduled for 2027.
- Completion Date: Expected by 2032.
Reasons for Expansion
Phuket, Thailand’s premier tourist destination, has witnessed a surge in visitor numbers, particularly from key markets such as China, India, Europe, and the Middle East. The increasing demand for flights has placed significant strain on Phuket International Airport (HKT), resulting in:
- Frequent congestion and long wait times at immigration and security.
- Limited slot availability for airlines, restricting new routes.
- Infrastructure constraints, particularly in peak travel seasons.
To support Thailand’s booming tourism industry, the Thai government has prioritized aviation infrastructure upgrades, with Andaman International Airport being a critical component of this long-term strategy.
Expected Benefits
The introduction of Andaman International Airport will bring multiple benefits to Thailand’s aviation and tourism sectors, including:
- Expanded international connectivity, allowing more long-haul carriers to introduce direct flights to Phuket.
- Boosting economic growth in the surrounding Andaman region, creating thousands of jobs in construction, airport operations, and hospitality.
- Reducing pressure on Phuket International Airport (HKT), which currently handles more than 18 million passengers annually, well over its design capacity.
- Enhanced regional air cargo capabilities, improving logistics for businesses and supporting Thailand’s trade economy.
Challenges and Considerations
Despite its potential benefits, the project faces some logistical and environmental challenges, including:
- Land acquisition concerns: Ensuring minimal impact on local communities and ecosystems.
- Environmental impact assessments: Thailand’s aviation authorities must mitigate any adverse effects on marine ecosystems and nearby national parks.
- Funding and timeline risks: Large-scale infrastructure projects often encounter delays and cost overruns.
Bottom Line
The announcement of Andaman International Airport marks a significant step forward for Thailand’s aviation industry. With its strategic location and £171 million investment, the new airport is expected to transform air travel to Phuket, providing much-needed capacity relief and supporting Thailand’s growing status as a global tourism powerhouse. If completed as planned, the airport will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of travel to southern Thailand over the next decade.
