Revamped airport runway and enhanced security measures approach final stages
Hey there! Let's take a look at the updates happening at Surat Thani airport, shall we? This place is currently in the midst of a grand overhaul, aiming to provide better services and overall experience for passengers.
The Department of Airports (DoA) is leading the charge with a budget of 799 million baht. The main goal? To handle larger aircraft safely and boost the airport's flight capacity from nine to a whopping 18 aircraft per hour [1]. That means more international flights can be accommodated!
Now, let's talk about safety. From state-of-the-art safety equipment to advanced security systems, it's all being upgraded. We're talking fire trucks, walk-through weapon detectors, cutting-edge X-ray machines, explosive detectors, and even a panoramic surveillance camera system to monitor airside areas [1]. The aim here is to keep potential threats at bay and respond quickly to emergencies while keeping international aviation safety standards top-notch, as set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) [1].
But it's not just about safety. Passenger services are also getting a boost. The focus is on reducing congestion, especially in check-in areas and baggage handling points. To achieve this, cleanliness and better airport management are being stressed to ensure a smooth travel experience for everyone [1]. To assist tourists, a new passenger transport centre is already up and running.
The project is almost complete, sitting at 90.5% as of early May 2025 [1]. Once finished, Surat Thani airport will not only be able to handle a larger influx of passengers (up to 1,400 passengers per hour and 4 million passengers annually) but will also boast tourism-friendly amenities that align with the "Living Airport" concept, supporting the local economy and community.
Did you know? As of now, the terminal can accommodate up to 1,400 passengers per hour and 4 million passengers annually, with parking for 210 cars and 11 aircraft bays. The apron can house up to 10 large aircraft, such as A330, B777s, or 19 smaller jets like the A320 and B737 [1]. The 3,000-metre-long, 45-metre-wide runway can handle nine flights per hour [1]. So there you have it! Keep an eye out for more updates as Surat Thani airport continues to shape up!
[1] Enrichment Data.
As the renovation nears completion, Surat Thani airport will offer an improved lifestyle experience for travelers, capable of handling up to 1,400 passengers per hour and 4 million passengers annually. This surge in capacity will also facilitate an increase in international flights.
