Bangkok Airways has announced a significant expansion of Trat Airport, with construction scheduled to begin in early 2025 and completion expected by 2-3 years. While the project is still in the planning and budgeting phase, it is supported by a 700 to 800 million baht investment and aims to enhance the airport’s capacity and infrastructure, positioning it as a more prominent gateway to Koh Chang.

The expansion is part of Bangkok Airways’ vision to develop Trat Airport into an international airport, further boosting its importance in the region. This development aligns with Bangkok Airways’ broader strategy to enhance regional connectivity and could have significant implications for tourism in the area.

Key Details of the Expansion

  • Runway Extension: The runway will be extended from 1,800 meters to 2,100 meters. This extension will allow the airport to accommodate larger aircraft, including the Boeing 737 and Airbus A320, which are typically used for international flights. Currently, Trat Airport is limited to handling smaller aircraft like the ATR72, so this upgrade will significantly expand its operational capabilities.
  • New Passenger Terminal: A new terminal will be constructed to double the current passenger capacity. The new facility will be able to handle over 200 passengers per flight, compared to the current limit of around 100. This is expected to streamline operations and improve the overall passenger experience, particularly during peak travel seasons.
  • Increased International Connectivity: By enabling larger aircraft to land at Trat Airport, the expansion opens the door for more direct international flights, especially from key markets like China. This could lead to a significant increase in tourism, with Koh Chang being a primary beneficiary.
  • Strategic Vision: The development aligns with Bangkok Airways’ broader strategy to enhance the region’s connectivity. Alongside the potential Koh Chang Bridge project, the airport expansion is part of a concerted effort to improve access to Koh Chang, which could have long-term benefits for tourism and local businesses.
  • Complementary Infrastructure: In addition to expanding the airport, the existing terminal may be repurposed as a cargo facility. This diversification of airport services could further enhance its role as a regional hub.

Potential Impact on Koh Chang

The expansion of Trat Airport is set to significantly improve accessibility to Koh Chang, potentially increasing the number of visitors to the island. This development, coupled with other infrastructure projects like the proposed Koh Chang Bridge, could play a crucial role in boosting the local economy by supporting tourism and related industries.

For those interested in the potential impacts of the Koh Chang Bridge and how these developments interconnect, you can revisit our earlier article here.

This comprehensive upgrade of Trat Airport signals a strong commitment to enhancing the region’s infrastructure, ensuring that Koh Chang remains an attractive destination for both domestic and international visitors in the years to come.