BANGKOK, Thailand – Thailand is set to transform its airports into a major aviation hub by the end of the decade. The government is projecting a significant increase in passenger traffic, aiming to handle approximately 120 million travelers annually by 2029 through substantial airport upgrades.
120 Million Passengers Targeted by 2029
Transportation Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn announced the ambitious target following a site inspection of Aerothai and the Airport of Thailand Public Company Limited (AOT). Suvarnabhumi Airport is slated to expand its capacity from the current 60 million to 73 million passengers per year. Don Mueang Airport is expected to handle an additional 43 million passengers annually. This projection does not yet account for traffic from regional hubs like Chiang Mai, Phuket, or Krabi.
Thailand Positioned for Growth
The minister highlighted Thailand’s strategic geographical advantage. Situated in the heart of the ASEAN region and positioned between the populous nations of China and India, the country possesses immense potential to become a central aviation and air cargo hub. The government is actively investing in improving infrastructure, technology, and workforce qualifications to support this vision.
12 Billion Baht Project at Suvarnabhumi
AOT has detailed plans to manage the anticipated surge in air traffic. A major Eastern expansion project at Suvarnabhumi Airport is in the works, with an estimated cost of 12 billion Baht. Construction is planned to commence in 2027, pending cabinet approval. This new terminal is intended to significantly boost the airport’s overall capacity.
Don Mueang Also Slated for Expansion
Beyond Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang Airport is also scheduled for upgrades. The third phase of its expansion is undergoing the approval process. This phase includes plans for a new international terminal and improved transportation links to the airport. The detailed designs are currently under review by the relevant authorities.
Growth Amidst Middle East Crisis
Minister Phiphat expressed confidence that the aviation sector’s growth trajectory will continue, even amidst ongoing tensions in the Middle East. AOT’s internal figures support this forecast, predicting that Bangkok’s two main airports alone will handle 116 million passengers by 2029, with the minister rounding the figure up to approximately 120 million.
Minister Gets First-Hand View
During his Tuesday visit, Minister Phiphat did not solely rely on presentations. He personally assessed the operational processes at Aerothai and AOT. His message to the airport operators and aviation authorities was clear: Thailand aims to be a leading player in regional air transport and close the gap with other major Asian aviation hubs.
Forecast Sparks Further Ambition
The projected passenger milestone is expected to solidify Thailand’s position as a key gateway to Southeast Asia. In addition to leisure travel, Bangkok is also focusing on expanding its air cargo operations. The next tangible step is the initiation of the Suvarnabhumi expansion in 2027, provided the cabinet approves the substantial investment.
“That gives the country strong potential to become a regional aviation and air cargo hub,” said Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, Minister of Transport.