Koh Samui is set for major changes in its airport facilities. The Transport Ministry is considering building a new airport to reduce high fees and break the monopoly of the current operator, Bangkok Airways. At the same time, the existing airport may expand to handle larger planes and more passengers. Both projects aim to boost tourism and support the island’s growing number of visitors.
Planning for the second airport in koh Samui
The Transport Ministry is considering building a new state-run airport on Koh Samui to address high airport fees and the monopoly held by Bangkok Airways, which operates the current facility. The existing Samui airport, opened in 1989, is unable to expand due to its proximity to residential areas and limited capacity to handle increasing flight demand.
Transport Minister Jarupong Ruangsuwan has tasked the Airports of Thailand (AoT) with studying the feasibility of constructing a second airport to foster price competition and accommodate growing tourism. A 2003 cabinet resolution previously addressed similar concerns, leading to feasibility and environmental studies conducted by Kasetsart University and ABEN Engineering Consultants.
The studies concluded that the project is financially viable and would cost around 2 billion baht, with the proposed location about 14km from the current airport. While supporters argue that the new airport would boost local tourism and the economy, opponents express concerns over potential noise pollution affecting nearby temples and communities.
Samui Airport Expansion to Boost Tourism
Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has revealed that a feasibility study is in progress to expand Samui Airport, aiming to accommodate larger aircraft and boost passenger capacity. Currently, the airport operates a single runway, suitable for smaller planes like the Airbus A319, and serves around 6 million passengers annually. The proposed expansion would allow larger aircraft, such as the Airbus A320, to meet the increasing demand from tourists. The study is expected to conclude by early next year.
Bangkok Airways, the airport’s owner, is in the process of acquiring additional land for the expansion. Mr. Srettha has also instructed local authorities to ensure that public utilities are upgraded to handle the anticipated rise in visitors.
Tourism and Sports Minister Sudawan Wangsuphakijkosol has met with local business operators to discuss strategies for further promoting Samui as a premier tourist destination. The government plans to emphasize the island’s culinary offerings and traditional lifestyle to attract more visitors. Discussions also included improving job training in hospitality and a proposal for a new cruise terminal, which is expected to draw more affluent travelers.
Between January and April 2024, approximately 100 cruise ships docked in Thailand, bringing over 214,000 passengers and 92,000 crew members. The majority of these visitors came from the UK, US, Malaysia, Germany, and Singapore. The proposal for the cruise terminal will be submitted to the cabinet for approval by the end of this year.
