Rayong governor assesses delayed U-Tapao Airport progress

Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, along with Vice Minister for the Office of the Prime Minister Nahathai Tiwphaingam and Rayong Governor Traipob Wongtrairat, visited the delayed U-Tapao Airport and Eastern Aviation City development project sites yesterday to assess ongoing progress.

Tharit Issarayangyun, Deputy Secretary-General of the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC), provided a comprehensive progress update on the project, which is part of the government’s strategy to standardise the aviation industry and stimulate investments in the EEC.

Progress was divided into two categories: civil and private sectors. According to Tharit, the Royal Thai Navy (RTN) is responsible for certain elements of the project. Recently, the RTN approved a budget of 16.2 billion baht for development, including the construction of the second runway and taxiway. The RTN is currently in the process of selecting contractors and consultants for this construction.

Regarding the project’s utility infrastructure managed by the state, more than 95% progress has been reported. Key installations, including the first phase of a water supply plant and a wastewater treatment system, have been completed, said Tharit.

“A 15-megawatt solar power plant, along with electricity and cooling systems, is nearing completion. Moreover, the construction of the aircraft refuelling service systems is at the halfway mark.”

On the private sector side, the EEC intends to speed up the process by issuing a notice to proceed with the construction of the third terminal building, a secondary concourse, and a shopping centre this year. Tharit mentioned that the entire project is expected to take five years to complete, with U-Tapao Airport and Eastern Aviation City projected to open in 2029.

Tharit acknowledged the delays that have pushed the project timeline forward.

“Originally, the plan was to commence construction in 2019 and complete it this year.”

In related news, government officials anticipate finalising the revised contract for the EEC high-speed rail system by next month, paving the way for the project’s next phase.

This high-speed rail system, a cornerstone project for the EEC, aims to connect Don Mueang, Suvarnabhumi, and U-Tapao airports.