Airports of Thailand (AOT) strengthens its European market presence at ITB Berlin 2026

Airports of Thailand Public Company Limited (AOT) is strengthening its presence in the European market by presenting the capabilities and future direction of Thailand’s airports at ITB Berlin 2026.

With passenger traffic climbing to 126 million, AOT is accelerating its drive to strengthen its role as a regional aviation hub, guided by its World Class Hospitality vision that prioritises memorable journeys, modern facilities, and environmental sustainability.

Miss Paweena Jariyathitipong, President of Airports of Thailand Public Company Limited (AOT), stated that this year the Thai government is promoting tourism under the concept “Unforgettable Experience: Healing is the New Luxury.” The initiative aims to position Thailand as a world-class destination while aligning closely with AOT’s operational approach of delivering warm service and an excellent passenger experience at every stage of the journey.

2025 Performance overview

In 2025, AOT’s six airports welcomed a total of 125.99 million passengers worldwide, including approximately 76.64 million international passengers and 49.35 million domestic passengers. Total aircraft movements reached 788,000 flights, including 445,000 international flights and 343,000 domestic flights.

Passenger statistics by airport

Bangkok-Suvarnabhumi Airport: 62.66 million passengers (+4.44%); 369,000 flights (+6.36%)
Bangkok-Don Mueang International Airport: 31.34 million passengers (+7.51%); 214,000 flights (+8.19%)
Chiang Mai International Airport: 9.38 million passengers (+6.37%); 63,600 flights (+10.11%)
Mae Fah Luang-Chiang Rai International Airport: 1.95 million passengers (+2.47%);  12,900 flights (+5.25%)
Phuket International Airport: 17.34 million passengers (+5.82%); 106,000 flights (+7.79%)
Hat Yai International Airport: 3.32 million passengers (+9.28%); 22,700 flights (+15.15%).

These figures reflect steady growth across AOT’s airport network and show Thailand’s strong recovery and continued expansion in global air travel.

Future expansion plans toward 200 million passengers by 2034

To support national tourism policy and further strengthen Thailand’s position as a global destination, AOT has outlined comprehensive expansion plans across all six airports to accommodate more than 200 million passengers annually by 2034.

Key development projects

Bangkok-Suvarnabhumi Airport: Construction of the East Expansion and South Terminal, a fourth runway, a new Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) center, and expanded cargo capacity.

Bangkok-Don Mueang International Airport: Phase 3 expansion including Terminal 3, renovation of existing terminals, a Junction Terminal, and a new parking building designed to accommodate tourist buses, passenger services, and retail areas.

Chiang Mai International Airport: Development of a new passenger terminal, renovation of the existing terminal, road infrastructure upgrades to reduce congestion, and a feasibility study supporting the development of a second Chiang Mai Airport (Lanna Airport).

Mae Fah Luang- Chiang Rai International Airport: Construction of a new passenger terminal.

Phuket International Airport: Development of a new terminal, increased flight slot capacity, and study for a Second Phuket Airport (Andaman Airport), a new construction with a projected capacity of 48–60 million passengers per year.

Hat Yai International Airport: Construction of new passenger terminals, renovation of the existing terminal, and development of a new parking building.

These investments are designed to meet international Level of Service standards and encourage repeat visits from international travelers.

Smart Airport – Smart Immigration

AOT is positioning Thailand as an aviation hub for Southeast Asia through modern infrastructure, enhanced passenger facilities, and advanced technology.

Passenger experience enhancements

• Co-working spaces
  • Private jet terminal
  • Children’s play areas
  • New relaxation zones for transit and transfer passengers

Technology implementation

• Airport Collaborative Decision Making (A-CDM)
  • Self check-in kiosks
  • Self baggage drop systems
  • Biometric boarding
  • Automated Border Control (ABC) for e-passport holders
  • Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC), replacing paper TM6 forms

These initiatives are designed to reduce waiting times, improve operational efficiency, and enhance service levels throughout the passenger journey.

Sustainability and net zero target for 2046

AOT’s airport development strategy places strong emphasis on sustainability alongside passenger service excellence.

AOT aims to achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2046, in alignment with national and United Nations goals.

Key green initiatives

• Transitioning all airport ground vehicles to electric vehicles (EVs)
  • Installing EV charging stations for public transport
  • Designing eco-friendly green buildings
  • Implementing community environmental programs
  • Supporting airlines in the adoption of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF)

Miss Jariyathitipong concluded that AOT participation at ITB Berlin 2026 represents an important opportunity to demonstrate Thailand’s airport readiness as the first point of contact in delivering a strong passenger experience and a memorable first impression for world travelers. While reinforcing AOT’s role as a key driver of Thailand’s economy.

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