Statistics compiled by the Ministry of Transport show that 81.05 million passengers used services at airports in Thailand from October 2023 to May 2024, representing a significant increase when compared with the pre-COVID-19 level.

Government Spokesperson Chai Wacharonke said that, out of this number, 48.95 million were international travelers and 32.09 million domestic travelers. The number of flights during the period rose to 490,970, dividing into 274,410 international flights and 216,560 domestic flights.

The Government Spokesperson said that Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin aims to develop the potential of Thai airports and upgrade their services and safety standards in an effort to move Thailand toward becoming a regional aviation hub.

In this regard, the Ministry of Transport has been proceeding with its plan to develop aviation infrastructure to increase the capacity of airports in Thailand, so that they will be able to accommodate more tourist arrivals.

In the development plan, Suvarnabhumi Airport is being expanded and its third runway will be opened in September 2024 to accommodate 94 flights from 68 flights per hour at present.

The Government Spokesperson quoted a report on the 2024 World’s Best Airports that Thailand’s Suvarnabhumi Airport is ranked 58th, climbing up ten places from 2023, while Don Mueang International Airport is recognized as 10th among the World’s Best Low-Cost Airline Terminals. The rankings were determined by air travelers’ satisfaction across the globe in the 2023-2024 World Airport Survey.

Thailand also sets a goal to develop itself into a global aviation hub, which will enhance the country’s competitiveness, promote the tourism industry, and provide more economic opportunities.