The Government of Thailand is accelerating a series of aviation infrastructure projects aimed at establishing the country as a regional aviation hub by 2029. The initiative is centred on the expansion of Suvarnabhumi Airport, alongside upgrades at Don Mueang International Airport, to increase passenger and cargo handling capacity and strengthen Thailand’s position as a key transit and logistics gateway between China and India.
According to Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, the Ministry of Transport is preparing to seek cabinet approval for the East Expansion project at Suvarnabhumi Airport. The project is estimated to cost THB12 billion (USD367 million), with construction scheduled to begin in 2027 and be completed by 2029. Upon completion, the airport’s annual passenger handling capacity will increase from 60 million to 70 million passengers. The expansion forms part of broader efforts to improve Thailand’s aviation infrastructure and accommodate rising travel demand.
Combined with planned expansion works at Don Mueang International Airport, Bangkok’s two main airports are expected to handle approximately 120 million passengers annually. The upgrades are intended to support Thailand’s ambition of becoming a leading aviation hub in ASEAN and Asia while enhancing regional connectivity and logistics capabilities. Ministry forecasts indicate that cargo throughput at Suvarnabhumi Airport will exceed 2.3 million tonnes in 2026, highlighting the growing importance of air freight in the country’s transport strategy.