A sprawling 1,496-rai plot of land near the enchanting Songkhla Lake in Phatthalung has finally been earmarked to host a new airport, which will serve as a pivotal hub for tourism and transport across Phatthalung, Songkhla, and Nakhon Si Thammarat provinces. This exciting development promises not only to enhance the connectivity of these southern provinces but also to transform the local economy and travel experience.
The chosen site, nestled in tambon Khuan Maphrao of Muang district, is currently under the stewardship of the Department of Rice (DoR). On August 19, Phatthalung’s public-private working group, spearheaded by Kittiphit Klapkhun, chairman of Phatthalung’s Chamber of Commerce, concluded the site’s selection. The pivotal meeting was presided over by the provincial governor, Nisakon Wisitsora-at, and attended by influential stakeholders, including senior state officials and representatives from airlines such as AirAsia, Nok Air, and Thai Lion Air.
Following this momentous decision, the first round of negotiations with the DoR commenced on September 5, as Mr. Kittiphit noted. This new airport project, coupled with the ambitious plan to construct a bridge over Songkhla Lake, heralds a new era of convenience and connectivity for both residents and tourists traveling to and from Phatthalung, along with neighboring districts in Songkhla and Nakhon Si Thammarat.
The project is expected to make significant strides in linking the districts of Cha-uat, Chulabhorn, Hua Sai, and Chian Yai in Nakhon Si Thammarat, as well as Ranot, Krasae Sin, and Sathing Phra in Songkhla. While bids for the bridge construction are slated to be called next year, with the actual work anticipated to commence in 2026 and span a decade, the airport project is set to take off in a much shorter timeframe.
The feasibility study for the Phatthalung airport, conducted between September 19, 2020, and June 13, 2021, revealed a robust economic potential with an Economic Internal Rate of Return (EIRR) of 14.70%. The study projected the airport would accommodate approximately 214,129 passengers annually, with about 28 flights operating each week. This promising potential did not go unnoticed, positioning the Phatthalung airport as a savvy investment.
Aside from the economic benefits, the Phatthalung airport, with a forecasted construction cost of 2.14 billion baht, is poised to captivate travelers with its stunning landscape. The site is a mere 10 kilometers from Phatthalung’s city center, and the scenic route leading to the proposed airport runs idyllically along the lake.
With such picturesque surroundings and strategic positioning, the new airport in Phatthalung is expected to be more than just a transit hub; it’s anticipated to become a gateway to the region’s natural beauty and cultural riches. As preparations move forward, the anticipation builds, promising a bright future for travel and connectivity in Southern Thailand.
This airport is going to be a game changer for Southern Thailand! It’s about time we had better connectivity.
Yes, but at what cost? The environmental impact could be disastrous.
I get your point, but the economic benefits outweigh the negatives here.
Economic benefits are temporary, the environmental damage is permanent. Think long term.
Totally agree with John! Tourism will skyrocket.
Imagine all the amazing local food that tourists will get to experience!
Good point! Authentic experiences are always a plus.
Okay, but how about improving local infrastructure first? Roads are still a mess.
New airport means better roads leading to it. It might solve the problem.
One can hope, but I’ve seen so many projects neglect local needs.
This is going to ruin the serene landscape around Songkhla Lake.
That’s true, but development is inevitable. Everything evolves.
Sad, but true. Wish we had better conservation efforts.
Can’t wait! This will make it so much easier to visit family in Nakhon Si Thammarat!
Isn’t the estimated passenger count a bit optimistic?
Given Southern Thailand’s growth, I don’t think so. It might even be an underestimate!
I’m more curious about the bridge over Songkhla Lake. That’s a huge engineering feat!
Agreed! The bridge project sounds just as impactful as the airport.
Why not invest in sustainable tourism instead of more airports and bridges?
Sustainable tourism is great but we also need infrastructure for growth.
Infrastructure doesn’t always mean more concrete. It can mean better eco-friendly solutions too.
So, what happens to the farmers and the Department of Rice? Are they just being displaced?
Good question! This is crucial. Farmers should be compensated adequately.
Agreed. If the project proceeds, fairness to all parties is a must.
With AirAsia, Nok Air, and Thai Lion Air already on board, this airport is going to be massive!
Can’t wait for the promotions and discounts they’ll offer!
Wonder how much a ticket to Phatthalung will cost compared to current routes?
With competition, prices will hopefully be lower!
I think the EIRR of 14.70% shows this is a smart financial move.
How come more local voices aren’t being heard in these projects?
We must consider the importing environmental and cultural impacts. Hope they did proper consultations.
This could really help put Phatthalung on the map for international tourists.
Honestly, I’m skeptical. Sounds like a lot of promises without much action.
Let’s not forget the heritage sites. Will they be preserved?
I doubt it. Profit usually takes precedence in these projects.