Airports of Thailand Prepare for Songkran Travel Surge with Free Parking Initiative
Passenger numbers expected to exceed 3 million, marking a 20% increase from last year during the annual holiday period.
Airports of Thailand Plc (AoT) has announced that it will provide free parking at four major airports during the Songkran festival, which will run from April 11 to April 17, 2025. Authorities anticipate a significant increase in passenger numbers this year, predicting over 3 million travelers during the holiday, representing a 20% rise compared to the previous year.
The airports participating in the free parking initiative include Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, Chiang Mai, and Phuket.
Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit has instructed all transport agencies to prepare for the expected surge in passengers and to prioritize convenience and safety for travelers utilizing land, rail, water, and air transport during this peak period.
Mr. Suriya highlighted the importance of integrating efforts among various agencies to ensure efficient and secure operations at the airports.
AoT President Kerati Kijmanawat confirmed that management plans have been established across all six airports operated by AoT to maximize efficiency and minimize congestion.
These airports, including Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, Chiang Mai, Mae Fah Luang Chiang Rai, Phuket, and Hat Yai, are set to handle a total of approximately 18,030 flights — comprising around 10,442 international flights and 7,588 domestic flights.
This marks a 20.7% increase in flight operations compared to last year.
Of the projected 3 million passengers, it is estimated that about 1.86 million will be international travelers, reflecting a 21% increase from the same period last year, while approximately 1.14 million travelers will be domestic, representing a 20% increase.
Free parking will be available from 00:01 on April 12 until midnight on April 16, 2025. In preparation for the influx of travelers, AoT has coordinated with airlines to ensure additional check-in counters are staffed and operational, enhancing the overall passenger experience.
Additional measures, such as increased cleaning protocols and the provision of luggage carts, have also been implemented to assist travelers during this busy period.
To further celebrate the Songkran holiday, AoT plans to offer cultural activities at the passenger terminals, including photo booths, Buddha image bathing stations, Thai food demonstrations, and souvenir giveaways, contributing to the festive atmosphere for arriving and departing travelers.
The airports participating in the free parking initiative include Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, Chiang Mai, and Phuket.
Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit has instructed all transport agencies to prepare for the expected surge in passengers and to prioritize convenience and safety for travelers utilizing land, rail, water, and air transport during this peak period.
Mr. Suriya highlighted the importance of integrating efforts among various agencies to ensure efficient and secure operations at the airports.
AoT President Kerati Kijmanawat confirmed that management plans have been established across all six airports operated by AoT to maximize efficiency and minimize congestion.
These airports, including Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, Chiang Mai, Mae Fah Luang Chiang Rai, Phuket, and Hat Yai, are set to handle a total of approximately 18,030 flights — comprising around 10,442 international flights and 7,588 domestic flights.
This marks a 20.7% increase in flight operations compared to last year.
Of the projected 3 million passengers, it is estimated that about 1.86 million will be international travelers, reflecting a 21% increase from the same period last year, while approximately 1.14 million travelers will be domestic, representing a 20% increase.
Free parking will be available from 00:01 on April 12 until midnight on April 16, 2025. In preparation for the influx of travelers, AoT has coordinated with airlines to ensure additional check-in counters are staffed and operational, enhancing the overall passenger experience.
Additional measures, such as increased cleaning protocols and the provision of luggage carts, have also been implemented to assist travelers during this busy period.
To further celebrate the Songkran holiday, AoT plans to offer cultural activities at the passenger terminals, including photo booths, Buddha image bathing stations, Thai food demonstrations, and souvenir giveaways, contributing to the festive atmosphere for arriving and departing travelers.
