AOT marks 47 years of operations, advancing Thailand’s Airports toward a world-class aviation hub through service excellence and international safety standards

Airports of Thailand Public Company Limited (AOT) is marking its 47th anniversary with a continued commitment to developing the nation’s airports to accommodate the growth of the aviation industry and international travel. The Company aims to strengthen Thailand’s position as a World-Class Aviation Hub while enhancing passenger experience and satisfaction through service excellence and the highest levels of safety in accordance with international standards.

Ms. Paweena Jariyathitipong, President of AOT, stated that on 1 July 2026, AOT celebrates 47 years of operations under the vision: “To be a World-Class Aviation Hub, ensuring safety in accordance with international standards while delivering excellence in service, innovation, and sustainable growth.” To realize this vision, AOT has established strategic directions through 2037 focused on the development of airports, infrastructure, and the aviation ecosystem through   digital transformation, innovation, and continuous enhancement of service quality.

During the first eight months of fiscal year 2026 (October 2025 – May 2026), AOT’s six airports successfully handled 552,119 flights, a 1.38% increase from the previous year. Passenger traffic reached 90.98 million passengers, marking a 2.76% year-on-year rise, demonstrating AOT’s continued growth and operational excellence.

The aviation industry is expected to continue its gradual expansion in 2027 despite uncertainties in the global economy and increasingly complex and rapidly evolving geopolitical developments. In response, AOT is accelerating the development of aviation infrastructure and facilities, promoting new air routes in high-potential markets, and strengthening cooperation with airlines and the tourism sector to stimulate international travel.

Ms. Paweena added that the current growth outlook presents a significant opportunity for AOT to further enhance the capacity of its six airports to accommodate more than 160 million passengers annually by 2034, in line with projected growth in the aviation industry.

Key airport development projects include:

Suvarnabhumi Airport – AOT is accelerating the construction of the East Expansion project, which will add approximately 81,000 square meters of usable space. The project is expected to become operational in 2031, increasing the airport’s annual passenger handling capacity to 70 million passengers. The East Expansion project will be undertaken in parallel with the South Development Project, covering more than 750,000 square meters. Construction will be implemented in multiple phases. The project is currently in the design stage, with construction scheduled to commence in 2029. The first phase of the South Terminal Development Project (Phase 1/3) is expected to be operational by 2033.

Don Mueang International Airport – AOT plans to construct Terminal 3 and renovate Terminals 1 and 2 to enhance operational efficiency and modernize passenger facilities. The project will also improve internal traffic circulation and strengthen connectivity with the rail transport network. Completion is expected in 2034.

Chiang Mai International Airport – AOT plans to construct a new international passenger terminal on the southern side of the airport and convert the existing terminal into a domestic passenger terminal. The project also includes the expansion and improvement of aircraft parking aprons, as well as the construction of parking facilities accommodating approximately 1,100 vehicles.

The project is expected to be completed in 2034.

Phuket International Airport – AOT will undertake the expansion of the international passenger terminal and aircraft contact gates, with completion expected in 2031.

Hat Yai International Airport – AOT is currently undergoing a comprehensive study and master plan development process, which is expected to be completed within 2026.

In addition to airport infrastructure development, AOT is enhancing its ground handling and air cargo service capabilities at Suvarnabhumi Airport. The Company is currently seeking Cabinet approval of the results of the private-sector selection process for projects involving apron and ground support equipment services, passenger ground handling services, and other related activities, as well as a third-party air cargo terminal service project, prior to the execution of public-private partnership agreements.

AOT has also established plans to elevate the passenger experience to world-class standards while reflecting Thai identity, warmth, and attentiveness. The Company aims to enhance service quality to a level comparable with leading international airports by providing a seamless end-to-end travel experience, from pre-departure and airport services to post-arrival stages.

Digital technologies are being deployed to improve operational efficiency across airport processes. At Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, and Phuket Airports, AOT, in cooperation with the Immigration Bureau, is accelerating the installation of more than 200 Automated Border Control (ABC) machines for both arriving and departing international passengers. In addition, eight ABC Special Assistant Lanes for passengers requiring special assistance will be installed by 2026. These initiatives are expected to significantly reduce waiting times at immigration checkpoints and improve passenger convenience.

AOT’s next phase of development will continue to place the highest priority on aviation safety and security, including the prevention and mitigation of wildlife hazards in areas surrounding its airports. The Company is currently evaluating the adoption of advanced technologies and innovative solutions to enhance wildlife hazard management. Among the technologies under consideration are bird dispersal systems that emit species-specific sound signals tailored to the types of birds detected in airport vicinities. These systems are equipped with data-recording capabilities, enabling systematic monitoring, risk assessment, and analysis of bird and wildlife activities. Such technologies will further strengthen AOT’s ability to manage wildlife hazards proactively and effectively. Building on these wildlife management measures, AOT has also enhanced airport security by deploying advanced baggage screening equipment utilizing 3D Computed Tomography (CT) X-ray technology, together with an Artificial Intelligence (AI)-powered prohibited object detection system. These technologies improve screening accuracy, strengthen security measures, and increase operational efficiency while maintaining international aviation security standards.

All six AOT airports continue to undergo regular inspections and oversight by the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). These assessments reaffirm that AOT’s operations, including both safety and security management, comply with international standards.

In light of geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, which have affected passenger travel decisions, flight operations, airline fuel costs, and other industry factors, AOT sees an opportunity to accelerate the development of new markets and routes that currently lack direct air services. The Company is focusing on high-demand markets, including India, China, and Europe, while also strengthening regional connectivity and supporting transit traffic through Thailand.

To stimulate aviation market growth, AOT is currently implementing an airline incentive program for carriers launching new routes to AOT airports. The program, which will remain in effect until 28 October 2028, offers discounts on landing and take-off charges, aircraft parking charges, and passenger boarding bridge service fees. In addition, AOT actively participates in route development forums and airline business meetings with aviation stakeholders. These engagements provide opportunities to discuss route development potential, present market opportunities, and encourage airlines to launch new services and expand operations to Thailand.

To maximize the utilization of vacant land surrounding its airports, AOT plans to develop these areas to support the aviation and tourism industries while generating additional revenue for the organization. These developments are also expected to create employment opportunities and distribute economic benefits to communities located around the airports. Potential projects include airport hotels, logistics parks, aviation parks, vehicle service and maintenance centers, electric vehicle charging stations, office rental facilities, and recreation centers designed to serve as hubs for health, leisure, and entertainment activities. AOT intends to invite private-sector partners with relevant expertise to participate in the development and investment of these projects.

In pursuit of its Net-Zero greenhouse gas emissions target, AOT has established an environmental policy aimed at positioning all six airports as leading international airports that are environmentally friendly and sustainably integrated with surrounding communities. The Company has developed plans to reduce greenhouse gas emissions through the installation of rooftop solar power systems on passenger terminal buildings and the utilization of the electricity generated for airport operations. In addition, AOT has adopted a policy requiring all vehicles operated by AOT and airport concessionaires to be electric vehicles. Future buildings constructed under AOT’s airport development plans will also be designed as energy-efficient or green buildings.

AOT remains firmly committed to advancing toward its goal of becoming a World-Class Aviation Hub. The Company will continue to enhance safety standards and service excellence through the application of modern technologies, while adhering to the principles of good corporate governance, transparency, and accountability.

Through sustainable and responsible growth, AOT aims to contribute to Thailand’s long-term economic and social development while supporting the nation’s strategic vision and long-term development goals.