PHUKET, THAILAND – The holiday island of Phuket processed more flights and passengers in mid-February than at any time in the past eight years, surpassing pre-crisis levels for the first time.
Record day at the airport
On 14 February 2026, the airport recorded 393 flight movements, according to official figures, exceeding the previous peak set in 2019. Of these, 247 flights operated on international routes and 146 on domestic routes, based on current data.
Sharp rise in international arrivals
A total of 71,613 passengers used the island’s airport that day, including 48,582 international travellers. Domestic traffic accounted for 23,031 passengers, remaining an important part of overall volume but clearly below the share of overseas visitors.
Sign of economic recovery
Provincial officials stated that the strong traffic on the reference date confirmed the ongoing economic recovery of the region after the slumps of recent years. According to the authorities, the increased volume was also an indication of returning traveller confidence in Phuket as a destination.
Authorities say infrastructure is ready
The southern province under the leadership of Governor Nirat Phongsitthithavorn considered itself well prepared to continue accommodating rising visitor numbers.
“We are prepared for a further increase in demand in international air travel and want to secure Phuket’s role as an international gateway on a sustainable basis.”
said provincial authorities.
Phuket strengthens role as international hub
With the new peak, the province further consolidated its position as one of the country’s most important international air traffic nodes. Officials viewed the development as a clear signal of sustained momentum in tourism to the island.