Krabi —
On October 12th, 2024, Deputy Transport Minister Manaporn Charoensri announced that Krabi International Airport and all relevant agencies have been instructed to fully prepare for a significant increase in flights and passengers during the high tourist season, especially along the Andaman coast.
Based on the Department of Airports (DOA) report, the 2024/2025 winter flight schedule shows over 160 domestic flights, more than 60 international flights, and 90 charter flights weekly at Krabi International Airport.
Passenger numbers are expected to rise by more than 60% from October 2024 through March 2025. To handle this influx, the airport is implementing several key improvements. These include increasing check-in counters from 14 to 16 to reduce congestion, ensuring sufficient staffing at key service points, and conducting thorough checks of airport facilities to ensure they are in top working condition.
The airport is also promoting the use of modern technology, encouraging passengers to use mobile check-in services, electronic identification via the Thai ID app, and self-service boarding pass scanners (CUPPS). Public transportation services within the airport are also being enhanced to offer seamless connectivity for travelers.
Krabi, known for its world-renowned natural attractions, is positioning the airport as a central travel hub in the Andaman region. By maintaining international service standards, focusing on passenger safety, and aligning with national infrastructure development policies, the airport is ready to accommodate the growing number of tourists and help boost the local economy and tourism industry, remarked Manaporn.
Additionally, DOA Director-General Danai Ruangsorn added that six domestic airlines are currently operating regular routes to Krabi, including Thai AirAsia, Bangkok Airways, Thai Vietjet, Thai Lion Air, Nok Air, and Thai Airways.
International airlines operating regular flights include Flydubai, Scoot Tigerair, and Malindo Air. Charter flights are operated by TUI fly, LOT Polish Airlines, and new entrant NEOS from Italy, offering direct flights on the Prague-Krabi-Prague route.
Projections for the first three months of the high season indicate that Krabi Airport will see more than a 60% increase in flights in October, a 30% rise in November, and a further 20% boost in December, showing a strong upward trend in both flights and passenger numbers, stated Danai.