Hat Yai Airport has unveiled an expansion programme to strengthen its role as the main gateway to southern Thailand. Between October 2024 and July 2025, the airport handled over 19,000 flights, including 2,522 international services (up 52.95 per cent) and 16,488 domestic services (up 12.22 per cent). Nine airlines currently connect Hat Yai with domestic cities such as Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, and Udon Thani, as well as international destinations including Kuala Lumpur and Singapore.
Short-term plans for the next two years include the renovation of the departure hall, upgraded restrooms, and improved access roads. Over the next 3–5 years, the airport will add new passenger terminals, expand parking facilities, widen access and internal roads, and install boarding bridges. Self-service check-in and passenger identity verification systems have already been introduced to improve efficiency and safety.
The airport is also participating in Airports Council International (ACI) service quality programmes as part of its long-term goal of achieving world-class standards. The government has emphasised its commitment to improving passenger satisfaction, operational transparency, and sustainable growth.