Airports of Thailand (AOT) is moving ahead with a major airport expansion programme aimed at increasing passenger capacity, upgrading facilities and reinforcing Thailand’s ambition to become a world-class aviation hub.
The projects were announced ahead of AOT’s 47th anniversary on July 1 and form part of the company’s long-term strategy through 2037.
The plan includes new terminals, larger passenger areas and major infrastructure improvements across several key airports, with completion dates set between 2031 and 2034.
AOT president Paweena Jariyathitipong said the company is accelerating airport development to support rising air travel demand and strengthen the country’s aviation network.
At Suvarnabhumi Airport, the East Expansion project will add about 81,000 square metres of usable space. Once opened in 2031, the upgrade is expected to raise the airport’s capacity to 70 million passengers per year.
AOT is also advancing the South Development Project, which will cover more than 750,000 square metres. Construction is scheduled to begin in 2029, with the first phase of the South Terminal expected to open in 2033.
Don Mueang International Airport is also set for a major transformation, including the construction of Terminal 3 and the renovation of Terminals 1 and 2. The project will improve passenger services, internal traffic flow and links with the rail network, with completion targeted for 2034.
Chiang Mai International Airport will receive a new international terminal on the southern side of the airport, while the current terminal will be converted for domestic flights.
The project also includes expanded aircraft parking areas and a new car park with space for around 1,100 vehicles. It is expected to be completed in 2034.
Phuket International Airport will see its international terminal and aircraft contact gates expanded, with the work scheduled for completion in 2031.
Meanwhile, Hat Yai International Airport is undergoing a comprehensive study and master plan, which AOT expects to complete this year.
AOT said the developments are designed to support the long-term growth of Thailand’s aviation sector. By 2034, the company aims to raise the combined capacity of its six airports to more than 160 million passengers a year.
From October 2025 to May 2026, covering the first eight months of the 2026 fiscal year, AOT’s six airports handled 552,119 flights, a rise of 1.38% from the previous year. Passenger traffic also increased 2.76% year on year to 90.98 million.
The expansion drive comes as Thailand steps up airport upgrades and route development in a wider effort to position itself as a regional centre for aviation, tourism, travel and investment.
