Hua Hin Airport to gain international status by next year
The Transport Ministry announced plans to elevate Hua Hin Airport to international status by next year, marking a significant step in enhancing regional connectivity. Transport Deputy Minister Manaporn Charoensri revealed this initiative yesterday, directing the Department of Airports, Aeronautical Radio of Thailand, and other relevant agencies to develop Hua Hin’s operations and secure the necessary international airport certification.
Heightened passenger numbers underscore the need for this upgrade, which promises to boost both domestic and international flights, offering more convenient travel options. The transformation of Hua Hin Airport is anticipated to benefit the tourism industry and invigorate the local economy significantly.
Danai Ruangsorn, the Director General of the Department of Airports (DoA), outlined the ambitious development plan, comprising two major projects. The first involves expanding the runway to meet international standards with a width of 45 metres, accommodating larger aircraft.
This expansion, costing approximately 239 million baht (US$7 million), has been completed and is currently undergoing a standards inspection by the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT).
“The runway expansion has been completed and is undergoing a standards inspection by the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT),” Danai said.
The second project focuses on expanding the road tunnel, runway strip, and runway-end safety area. This initiative requires an estimated investment of 300 million baht (US$8.7 million) and is awaiting approval from the Budget Bureau. The DoA anticipates that the contract will be signed this month, with work commencing in January next year and completion expected by April 2026.
Presently, Hua Hin Airport accommodates Boeing 737 and Airbus A320 aircraft, each capable of carrying approximately 180 passengers. The existing passenger terminal, slated for expansion, can handle 300 passengers per hour or about 860,000 passengers annually, reported Bangkok Post.
The airport now services domestic flights, with Thai AirAsia operating on the Chiang Mai–Hua Hin route. Flights are available on Sundays, Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, with one flight per day, providing essential connectivity for travellers.
