Udon thani: Deputy Minister of Transport, Mrs. Manoporn Charoensri, announced significant upgrades to Udon Thani Airport aimed at expanding its capacity to 7.2 million passengers per year by 2028. The development is intended to support the growing tourist influx and the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conventions, and Exhibitions) industry in the region.
According to Thai News Agency, the enhancements at Udon Thani Airport include the construction of Terminal 3, renovations of Terminals 1 and 2, and improvements in public transport connectivity and passenger services. Mrs. Charoensri highlighted the region’s popularity among tourists and the need for efficient facilities to manage the seasonal peak effectively. She emphasized the strategic importance of the airport in promoting Udon Thani as a gateway to the upper northeastern region and a key player in Thailand’s MICE industry, which is facilitated by its recent designation as a MICE CITY.
The planned development includes a comprehensive public relations strat
egy with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) to boost tourism through various promotional activities. The initiatives aim to enhance the travel experience by increasing staff numbers for better service, organizing public transport more effectively, and improving signage and passenger information systems. The Director-General of the Department of Airports (DoA), Mr. Danai Ruangson, confirmed that the airport’s expansion plans are on track with the scheduled improvements and constructions, which will also include an internal walkway and a passenger transport center slated for completion by 2026.
Udon Thani Airport currently boasts a capacity of handling 1,200 passengers per hour over a total area of 19,200 square meters. The future developments are expected to significantly enhance its operational standards and service quality, making it a competitive hub in ASEAN for both tourists and business travelers.
The expansion is not only a crucial step towards accommodating a higher volume of tourists but also a
ligns with the government’s objectives to promote the MICE industry in Udon Thani, which has already achieved recognition for its event venues and facilities.