Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn yesterday inspected Surat Thani Airport and outlined policies aimed at transforming the province into a tourism gateway to the Gulf of Thailand.
The policies focus on improving transport infrastructure, expanding international flight connections, and addressing traffic congestion and flood problems.
Mr Phiphat toured the passenger terminal, public transport facilities, and CIQ (Customs-Immigration-Quarantine) area to assess the airport’s readiness to take the growing number of domestic and international travellers. The Department of Airports briefed him on plans to upgrade the facility.
He highlighted Surat Thani’s strategic importance as a major southern hub on the Gulf coast, home to world-renowned islands such as Koh Samui, Koh Pha Ngan, and Koh Tao. “Tourism in Surat Thani is expanding rapidly, particularly with the increasing number of foreign visitors,” he said.
“Upgrading Surat Thani Airport will create seamless connectivity between air, land, and local public transport systems, enabling smoother, safer, and faster travel for both residents and tourists.”
The minister instructed the Department of Airports to coordinate with foreign airlines, particularly those from China, to attract direct flights to Surat Thani.
He said the ministry is promoting “quality tourism” rather than mass “zero-dollar tours”, to ensure tourism benefits are distributed to local communities and support a sustainable grassroots economy.
“I want Surat Thani to serve as the main tourism gateway to the Gulf of Thailand — welcoming visitors from around the world, not merely as an alternative to Phuket, but as a destination in its own right where both Thais and foreigners can travel conveniently,” Mr Phiphat said.
He also addressed measures to tackle flood and traffic issues during his visit.