Thailand’s Transport Ministry has been directed to fast-track public investments during the four-month mandate of Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul’s government, with the Airports of Thailand (AOT) leading efforts through the expansion of Suvarnabhumi Airport. The initiative aims to stimulate short-term economic growth and generate employment while enhancing long-term aviation competitiveness.
Further, AOT confirmed that the East Expansion Project, worth THB12 billion, will add 81,000 square metres of terminal space and increase the airport’s annual capacity by 15 million passengers. The project awaits Cabinet approval by year-end, after which bidding will commence, and construction is slated to begin in 2026 with completion targeted for 2030. Once operational, Suvarnabhumi’s total handling capacity will rise from 65 million to 70–80 million passengers per year.
The agency also announced plans to proceed with the South Terminal development, replacing the earlier SAT-2 plan with a larger, integrated terminal covering 1.59 million square metres. The upgraded terminal will enable Suvarnabhumi to handle 120 million passengers annually, accommodate 120 flights per hour, and provide 160 contact gates, reinforcing Thailand’s status as a key regional aviation hub.