Top Airports in Thailand for Every Trip
Thai Skies Unleashed
If you’re planning a trip to Thailand, chances are you’ll pass through one of its many busy and vibrant airports. With millions of tourists arriving every year, airports in Thailand play a huge role in connecting travellers to the country’s bustling cities, serene beaches, and cultural hubs. From major international gateways like Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok to charming regional hubs like Chiang Rai International Airport, each has its own vibe, facilities, and quirks. In this Thailand airport guide, you’ll get to know the top international airports and regional airports, and helpful insights to make your arrival stress-free.
Key Takeaways
- Thailand has a well-connected network of international and regional airports serving both leisure and business travellers.
- Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) and Don Mueang Airport (DMK) are the country’s main international hubs.
- Popular tourist destinations like Phuket, Chiang Mai, and Krabi are served by their well-equipped airports.
- Several new airports and expansion projects are underway to improve connectivity for domestic and international travel.
- Choosing the right airport can save time and improve your travel experience in Thailand.
Choosing the Right Airport for Your Trip
Before booking your India to Thailand flight, it’s worth thinking about which airport works best for your travel plans. Thailand is a long country, so flying into the right spot can save hours of road or ferry travel. Some airports are perfect for direct international arrivals, while others excel at connecting you to hidden gems.
Travel Type / Region | Recommended Airports |
| Bangkok & Central Thailand | Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK), Don Mueang International Airport (DMK) |
| Southern Beaches | Phuket International Airport (HKT), Krabi International Airport (KBV), Samui International Airport (USM) |
| Northern Adventures | Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX), Chiang Rai International Airport (CEI) |
| Island Hoppers | Samui International Airport (USM) |
| Culture Seekers | Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX), Chiang Rai International Airport (CEI) |
| Beach Lovers | Phuket International Airport (HKT), Krabi International Airport (KBV) |
Major International Airports in Thailand
Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) – Bangkok’s Modern Gateway
Located 25 km east of downtown Bangkok, Suvarnabhumi Airport is the largest and busiest airport in Thailand, handling millions of international and domestic passengers annually. Its modern design, spacious lounges, shopping arcades, and wide dining choices make it a comfortable stopover. You’ll find major airlines like Thai Airways, Bangkok Airways, Air Asia, and international carriers such as Air France and Air China here. If you’re visiting Bangkok, this airport is your most convenient entry point.
Don Mueang International Airport (DMK) – The Low-Cost Hub
Situated 24 km north of downtown Bangkok, Don Mueang International Airport is one of Asia’s oldest airports, now thriving as a hub for budget airlines like Nok Air and Lion Air. It features separate terminals for domestic and international flights, numerous food stalls, and affordable transportation options. Travellers heading to smaller Thai cities often find cheaper flights from here than from Suvarnabhumi Airport.
New for 2025- Terminal 2 expansion is underway to increase capacity from 18 million to 30 million passengers annually.
Phuket International Airport (HKT) – Gateway to Island Bliss
Located in northern Phuket, Phuket International Airport is one of the busiest airports in Thailand. It has separate domestic and international terminals and offers connections to destinations across Asia and beyond. From here, you can reach Patong Beach, one of the best beaches in Thailand, which is about 45 minutes away. You can also explore Phuket Old Town in 30 minutes. It’s also a common entry point for Phuket tourism.
Update - A new runway project (completion expected 2027) will allow more long-haul flights from Europe and the Middle East.
Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) – Northern Thailand’s Cultural Hub
Only 4 km from the city centre, Chiang Mai International Airport is ideal for exploring temples, night markets, and the mountains of northern Thailand. With both domestic and international flights in a single terminal, it’s an easy and traveller-friendly airport. If you’re planning a 7-day Thailand itinerary, Chiang Mai often makes the perfect mid-trip or ending destination.
Regional Airports in Thailand
Krabi International Airport (KBV) – Gateway to Railay and Phi Phi
Located 15 km from Krabi town, Krabi International Airport connects visitors to Ao Nang, Railay Beach, and the Phi Phi Islands with ferry services. The airport has been upgraded recently to handle more passengers, making arrivals and departures smoother.
Hat Yai International Airport (HDY) – Southern Thailand’s Connector
Situated near the Malaysian border, Hat Yai International Airport serves as a transport hub for travellers heading to Songkhla, Satun, and even into Malaysia. It is one of the popular airports in Thailand with both tourists and business travellers.
Samui International Airport (USM) – Boutique Island Airport
Privately owned and famously scenic, Samui International Airport on Koh Samui blends open-air architecture with tropical landscaping. Despite its small size, it offers a premium arrival experience for travellers heading to luxury resorts.
Chiang Rai International Airport (CEI) – Peaceful Northern Gateway
Smaller than Chiang Mai’s airport, Chiang Rai International Airport is perfect for those seeking a quieter entry point into northern Thailand. From here, you can easily reach the temples in Thailand, like the White Temple and the Golden Triangle.
Surat Thani International Airport (URT) – Gateway to the Gulf Islands
Located on the mainland, Surat Thani International Airport is a jumping-off point for ferries to Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, and Koh Tao. While it doesn’t handle direct international flights, its domestic connections make it a practical choice for budget island-hopping.
Regional vs. International Airports: What’s the Difference?
International airports like Suvarnabhumi (BKK) handle long-haul and regional flights from outside Thailand, while regional airports mainly serve domestic routes, though some handle short-haul international flights from nearby countries.
| Feature | International Airport | Regional Airport |
| Flight range | Global + Regional | Domestic + Some Regional |
| Facilities | Extensive | Basic to mid-level |
| Airlines | Full-service + low-cost | Mostly low-cost carriers |
| Ideal For | First entry to Thailand | Short domestic hops |
Tip - Check if your chosen airport offers direct flights from your home country.
Emerging Airports and Future Expansions
Thailand’s government is investing heavily in expanding airports in Thailand to meet Thailand's tourism demand. Notable projects include:
- A second Phuket Airport (5.8 billion baht)
- Major expansion of Krabi International Airport (2.7 billion baht)
- New Mukdahan Airport (construction starts 2025)
- Planned airports in Bueng Kan and Satun provinces.
Quick Travel Tips for Thai Airports
- Visa on Arrival - Available at major airports like Suvarnabhumi and Phuket. If you’re from a country like India, tourists are eligible for a Visa on Arrival. You can get it directly at major Thai airports like Suvarnabhumi (BKK), Don Mueang (DMK), Phuket (HKT), and Chiang Mai (CNX).
- SIM Cards - Purchase at arrival halls for instant connectivity. You’ll find telecom booths for providers like AIS, TrueMove, and DTAC right after customs in Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang and Phuket.
- Currency Exchange - Rates are usually better inside city areas, but airport counters are convenient for quick cash.
- Transport - Book airport transfers in advance through trusted platforms like PickYourTrail for a hassle-free start.
- Know your airport code - With multiple airports in Bangkok alone (BKK for Suvarnabhumi and DMK for Don Mueang), double-check your ticket before booking transport or accommodations. Mixing them up could cost you precious travel time.
- Take advantage of free Wi-Fi and lounges - Most international airports in Thailand offer free Wi-Fi for a set time (usually 1–2 hours). If you need more time or a quiet space to work, affordable day-pass lounges are available.
Conclusion: Thailand Airports
Whether you’re landing in Suvarnabhumi Airport’s sleek terminals or stepping off a budget flight at Don Mueang, airports in Thailand are designed to get you to your next adventure quickly and comfortably. With ongoing expansions and new projects, travelling to and within Thailand will only become smoother. So be ready to fully enjoy the party vibe in Thailand. Pack your bags and book your Thailand tour packages for a memorable trip without any hassle.
FAQ – Airports in Thailand
Which is the best airport to fly into in Thailand?
If you’re visiting Bangkok, Suvarnabhumi Airport is the largest and most connected.
Is Don Mueang better than Suvarnabhumi?
Don Mueang International Airport is better for budget and domestic flights, while Suvarnabhumi handles more long-haul and premium carriers.
How do I get from Phuket Airport to Patong Beach?
Taxi, shuttle, and private transfer options are available, with travel time around 45–60 minutes.
Which airport is closest to Koh Samui?
Samui International Airport is located right on the island, just minutes from most resorts.
Are there new airports opening in Thailand?
Yes, expansions are underway for Phuket, Krabi, and new airports in Mukdahan, Bueng Kan, and Satun provinces.
Update your location?