Thailand airports to rival global top 20 within five years, says AoT

Thailand’s major airports are set for a significant transformation as Airports of Thailand (AoT) aims to elevate them into the top 20 globally within five years, drawing inspiration from Singapore’s renowned Changi Airport.

This ambitious plan, spearheaded by the Transport Ministry, targets Suvarnabhumi International Airport as a key player in achieving this goal.

Permanent Secretary for Transport, Chayatan Phromsorn, confirmed that the ministry has tasked AoT with enhancing the quality and efficiency of Suvarnabhumi International Airport. With Changi Airport as a benchmark, efforts are underway to improve Thailand’s aviation infrastructure.

Chayatan recently visited Changi Airport, engaging in discussions with Yam Kum Weng, the Changi Airport Group’s CEO, to explore collaborative opportunities. Known for its outstanding efficiency and amenities, Changi serves as a model for Thailand’s aviation development.

AoT President, Kerati Kijmanawat, outlined the strategic development plans designed to position Thailand as a major aviation hub in the region. These plans include increasing the combined capacity of Bangkok’s Don Mueang and Suvarnabhumi airports to accommodate 200 million passengers annually, with aspirations to rank among the world’s top 20 airports within five years.

Suvarnabhumi Airport is set to undergo significant expansion, starting with the extension of its main terminal on the east side. This project, expected to take three years, aims to boost capacity by 15 million passengers each year.

Optimistic plans

Furthermore, a new south terminal will be constructed, embracing a mega terminal concept and accommodating an additional 70 million passengers annually. These enhancements will enable Suvarnabhumi to handle up to 150 million passengers per year.

Don Mueang Airport is not left behind, as it enters the third phase of development to support 50 million passengers per year.

Kerati highlighted the installation of numerous self-check-in kiosks, automatic baggage drop stations, and eGates at both airports, with plans to expand these facilities further.

He also revealed plans for a 200,000-square-metre shopping mall at Suvarnabhumi’s south terminal, inspired by Jewel Changi Airport. Bidding for this project is slated to begin next year, with completion expected by 2031.

New relaxation zones within Suvarnabhumi are also on the horizon. Additional waiting areas and co-working spaces are set to open next month, with children’s play zones anticipated by February.

AoT is also exploring a green airport initiative with Changi Airport, focusing on sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) production to meet European aviation regulations. The initiative includes plans to install solar panels at the airports, aiming to reduce daytime energy costs to zero within three years.

With these extensive plans, Thailand’s airports are poised to become leading global aviation hubs, offering enhanced services and sustainability efforts on par with the world’s best, reported Bangkok Post.