The Government of Thailand has announced plans to develop six new regional airports under an estimated THB26 billion infrastructure programme aimed at improving regional connectivity, tourism access and cross-border trade.
The proposed airports are planned for Phatthalung, Mukdahan, Satun, Phayao, Kalasin and Bueng Kan. The projects are currently at various pre-construction stages, including feasibility studies, environmental impact assessments (EIAs) and preliminary design preparation.
The airport programme forms part of Thailand’s broader strategy to decentralise economic development away from Bangkok and strengthen regional transport infrastructure. Authorities expect the new airports to improve mobility, reduce travel times to existing aviation hubs and support tourism, logistics and investment activity in underserved provinces.
Border provinces such as Mukdahan and Bueng Kan are expected to benefit from stronger trade connectivity with Laos through improved access along Mekong economic corridors. Meanwhile, airports planned in Phatthalung and Satun are intended to improve tourism and transport accessibility in southern Thailand, while Phayao and Kalasin would strengthen aviation connectivity in northern and northeastern regions.
According to project updates, feasibility studies for the Phatthalung and Kalasin airports have been completed, while Mukdahan and Bueng Kan are progressing through design and EIA stages. Bueng Kan has reportedly secured EIA approval and is awaiting Cabinet approval and budget allocation. The Satun and Phayao projects remain in earlier planning phases.
