Suvarnabhumi soars as UNESCO’s most beautiful airport (video)
In a triumph for Thai architecture, Suvarnabhumi International Airport has been hailed by UNESCO as one of the top six most beautiful airports globally for 2024. But that’s not all, the airport’s SAT-1 building has also bagged a nomination for the prestigious Prix Versailles Award for the most stunning airport design on the planet, with results set to be revealed on December 2.
Suriya Juangroongruangkit, Thailand’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport, couldn’t contain his excitement as he shared the news. Under the adept management of Airports of Thailand Public Company Limited (AOT), Suvarnabhumi is now in the spotlight on the world stage.
The stunning SAT-1, a colossal four-storey terminal with two basement levels and an impressive 216,000 square metres, dazzles with its architectural excellence. Connected to 28 nearby parking bays, SAT-1 isn’t just another terminal, it’s a masterpiece celebrating Thai identity and sustainability.
Inside, the terminal’s pièce de résistance is a striking sculpture of an elephant that greets passengers in the departure hall on the third floor. This level is also home to a beautifully curated garden, resplendent with mythical Thai creatures like Kinnara, Kinnari, and Hongsa, straight out of ancient folklore.
Meanwhile, the second floor enchants arriving passengers with a moveable garden showcasing traditional Thai arts, including puppetry and Khon masks.
For added cultural flair, the ends of the building boast Buddha statues, Suwannabupbok and Ratanabupbok, inspired by those at Wat Pha Sorn Kaew, believed to bring prosperity. Even the bathrooms are a feast for the eyes, featuring art and motifs inspired by the four regions of Thailand, with all fixtures designed to conserve water,
As Suriya puts it, “Suvarnabhumi doesn’t just get you from A to B, it immerses you in the essence of Thailand, blending tradition with modernity like never before.”
Channel 3 reported that the prestigious nomination places Suvarnabhumi head and shoulders above many, alongside fellow contenders: Terminal E at Logan International Airport, USA; Terminal 2 at Changi Airport, Singapore; Zayed International Airport, UAE; Felipe Ángeles International Airport, Mexico; and Kansas City International Airport, USA.
As we eagerly await the December verdict from Paris, it’s clear that Suvarnabhumi is soaring to new heights in airport design.
