Phuket International Airport Information
All the information featured on this page was compiled and written by David Enrich, a renowned expert in aviation and airport guides since 1999.
Phuket International Airport has a rich history and has become a crucial gateway to Thailand’s largest island. Here’s an overview of its past, present, and future:
History
Phuket’s aviation history dates back to the early 1930s when the island’s first airstrip was constructed in what is now Phuket Town. Initially serving as a military base during World War II, it later became a civilian airport.
The airport’s development accelerated in the 1980s when the Thai government recognized Phuket’s potential as a major tourist destination. Significant investments were made to expand and upgrade the facility
Key milestones include:
- 1988: The airport officially opened on October 9th.
- 1990s: Construction of a new international terminal.
- 2000s: Runway extensions and domestic terminal upgrades.
- 2010s: Opening of a new domestic terminal and expansion of international facilities.
- 2016: A new terminal opened in mid-September, increasing capacity from 6.5 to 12.5 million passengers per year.
Current Data
As of January 2025, Phuket International Airport handled 2.0 million passengers, showing a 22.1% year-on-year increase. Of these, 670,716 were domestic passengers (+11.5% year-on-year) .
The airport now has three main terminals:
- International Terminal (Terminal 1)
- Domestic Terminal (Terminal 2 or 3)
- Terminal X (for charter flights)
Popular Flight Routes
While specific route data is not available, here’s a table of some of the busiest destinations based on the airport’s status as a major tourist hub:
Future Outlook
Phuket International Airport continues to grow and adapt to increasing passenger volumes. Some key points for its future include:
- Capacity expansion: The airport is likely to continue expanding to meet growing demand, as it has already surpassed its designed capacity of 12.5 million passengers per year.
- Technology integration: Expect further adoption of modern technology to enhance passenger experience and streamline operations.
- Sustainability initiatives: As with many airports worldwide, Phuket International Airport may focus on implementing more environmentally friendly practices.
- Economic impact: The airport’s growth will continue to play a crucial role in Phuket’s tourism industry and overall economic development.
- Infrastructure improvements: Ongoing upgrades to runways, terminals, and surrounding infrastructure are likely to accommodate larger aircraft and more passengers.
As Phuket remains a popular tourist destination, its international airport will undoubtedly continue to evolve and expand to meet the needs of travelers and support the region’s economic growth.
Passengers Statistics
This table shows the passenger traffic at Phuket International Airport from 2010 to 2024, including domestic and international passengers, total passengers, and the year-on-year change in percentage.