Thailand has unveiled an ambitious plan to establish itself as ASEAN’s largest aviation hub by 2029, with huge investments in airport infrastructure, logistics networks and aviation services aiming to strengthen the country’s position in regional air travel.
The Ministry of Transport plans to expand the combined passenger capacity of Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang airports to at least 120 million passengers annually by 2029. According to the plan, Suvarnabhumi Airport’s capacity will increase from 60 million passengers to more than 73 million over the next three years.
Transport Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn said the government intends to capitalise on Thailand’s strategic geographic location and make the country a major regional hub for both passenger travel and logistics, including the integration of key provincial airports, including Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Phuket, Krabi, Khon Kaen and Ubon Ratchathani, into the national aviation network.
Alongside passenger growth, Thailand wishes to strengthen cargo operations. Airports of Thailand Ground Aviation Services (AOTGA) is preparing to operate Suvarnabhumi Airport’s third cargo warehouse, while authorities are working to streamline regulations and improve handling systems for specialised cargo for pharmaceuticals, live animals and controlled shipments.
Several major infrastructure projects are in progress under the aviation master plan. Suvarnabhumi Airport’s East Expansion project is currently under review, with construction expected to begin next year. Meanwhile, Don Mueang Airport’s Phase 3 expansion, including a new international terminal and improved transport connectivity, is at the approval stage.
The government is also accelerating the development of aircraft maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) facilities and dedicated aviation logistics centres to support long-term growth in passenger traffic and cargo volumes.
Officials remain confident that ongoing infrastructure and logistics projects will enable Thailand to achieve its goal of becoming ASEAN’s premier aviation hub by the end of the decade.
