In the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic, many airports may struggle to accommodate the increased flight demand. The perfect remedy, however, noted Minister Suriya Juangroongruangkit, lies in enhancing their capabilities through expansion initiatives.
Both the Airports of Thailand (AOT) and the Department of Airports (DOA) will conduct extensive research on the expansion of existing airports in addition to the creation of new ones, all in an effort to support the escalating demands of travel.
A key point of discussion included the limitations surrounding the expansion of Phuket Airport due to the increase in passenger volume. A solution proposed was the construction of another airport in close proximity, specifically in Phang Nga. Thorough research suggests that the Khok Kloi Subdistrict of Phang Nga would be an ideal location for this new airport venture. Currently, the ministry is examining whether the new airport should operate as a private-public cooperative or remain under the jurisdiction of the AOT or DOA.
In addition to these expansion efforts, Suriya is also actively considering increasing airline slots, an initiative that is currently under thorough examination.
Kerati Kijmanawat, President of AOT, revealed plans to invest a staggering 10 billion baht to expand Phuket airport. This investment is set to scale its current capacity of 12 million passengers to an impressive 20 million yearly, with operations set to commence in 2025.
During the renovation process, the AOT will explore the feasibility of establishment of Phang Nga Airport to help alleviate overcrowding at Phuket Airport. Kijmanawat estimated the potential investment to be approximately 80 billion baht.
Bangkok Airways President, Puttipong Prasarttong-Osoth mentioned that the airline stands ready to invest in the proposed Phang Nga airport. The airline waits in anticipation of AOT’s decision regarding their investment in the proposed airport.
Should AOT opt to invest in the airport, Bangkok Airways will exhibit patience before implementing new flights, considering Phang Nga’s robust potential in tourism. Numerous travelling patrons tour the province after landing at Phuket Airport.
Another noteworthy fact reinforced by Puttipong is the deployment of direct flights to Phuket by as many as eight airlines since the pandemic. The bustling traffic will pose a challenge for Phuket Airport, given its single runway. Consequently, the proposed Phang Nga Airport ought to significantly lessen this congestion.
Lastly, the Thai Airlines Association, comprised of leading airlines like Bangkok Airways, Thai AirAsia, Thai AirAsia X, Thai Smile Airways, Nok Air, Thai Lion Air, and Thai Vietjet, has scheduled a meeting with the Transport Minister. This essential dialogue will further stimulate discussions concerning the formulation of policies to rejuvenate both the aviation and tourism industry.
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