How Many Airports Are in Phuket? A Comprehensive Guide
Phuket is a renowned tourist destination celebrated for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich cultural experiences. Central to its accessibility is Phuket International Airport (HKT), the only airport serving the island.
This article provides a comprehensive guide to Phuket International Airport, detailing its facilities, traffic statistics, and future developments.
Overview of Phuket International Airport
Phuket International Airport (HKT) is the only airport on the island. It is located approximately 32 km (20 miles) north of Phuket City in the Mai Khao sub district of Thalang district.
Opened in 1976, it has undergone significant expansions over the years to accommodate the growing number of international tourists. Now, the airport can accommodate 12.9 million passengers with a frequency of 23 flights per hour.
Today, it is Thailand’s third-busiest airport, following Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang airports in Bangkok.
Flights at Phuket Airport
The Phuket International Airport operates several domestic and international flights. They include:
- Domestic flights: Major cities like Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang), Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, and Udon Thani.
- International flights: Popular routes include destinations in China, Vietnam, India, Japan, Australia, Malaysia, Singapore, and more.
How many terminals are there in the Phuket Airport?
Phuket International Airport features three main terminals:
- Terminal 1 (International Terminal)
- Handles all international arrivals and departures.
- Equipped with duty-free shops, restaurants, and lounges.
- Facilities include currency exchange services and information counters.
- Terminal 2 (Domestic Terminal)
- Serves all domestic flights within Thailand.
- Offers similar amenities as Terminal 1 but on a smaller scale.
- Includes local dining options and shopping facilities.
- Terminal X (Charter Terminal)
- Opened in 2014 specifically for charter flights.
- Designed to accommodate seasonal travel demands without overcrowding the main terminals.
- It provides essential services similar to those provided by other terminals.
Each terminal is well-equipped with modern facilities to improve passenger comfort and convenience. Talking about facilities and services, let’s take a good look at the available services at the airport.
READ ALSO: Ultimate Phuket Honeymoon: Guide to Dream Honeymoon in Phuket
Services and Facilities at the Airport
Some of the services offered at the Phuket International Airport include:
ATMs
There are lots of ATM machines available in Phuket International Airport after you get through customs. Just be sure to keep an eye out for signages pointing you to the ATM sections – you should spot them fairly easily.
WiFi
You also don’t need to worry about WIFI because you can use WIFI from TrueMove for a minimal fee. When making a payment, they will give you the password, and you can use it as much as you want until you’re out of the airport.
Business area
If you have urgent work and need it done at the airport, you can walk to the departure zone. There, you’ll find a telegraph office where you can easily get and send a fax or make photocopies of any document.
Food and beverage
A variety of restaurants and cafes offer both Thai cuisine and international dishes. Notable options include:
- Thai food stalls serving authentic local dishes.
- Fast food outlets for quick meals before boarding.
Travel agents
If you haven’t arranged your travel plans prior to arrival, there are travel agents available at the airport who can assist with bookings and provide information about local tours and activities. They are particularly helpful for last-minute arrangements and are open until late hours.
Lost and found
In case of lost luggage or personal belongings, passengers can visit the dedicated lost and found counter located in both terminals. This service ensures travelers can report lost items and retrieve them if found.
If you happen to lose your belongings around the Phuket International Airport area, you can contact them through their official page.
Medics
For medical emergencies or health concerns, medical assistance is readily available. The airport is equipped with basic medical facilities and staff trained to handle emergencies, ensuring passenger safety and well-being.
Transportation Options From the Airport
Let’s say you arrived at the airport. Would there be a ride to take you to your destination? If not, you can use some of these options:
Taxis
Taxis are readily available outside both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. You should have a budget of around THB 600 to THB 800, depending on your destination in Phuket.
Airport Limousines
For those seeking a more luxurious experience, airport limousines can be booked in advance or upon arrival. The prices vary based on vehicle type but typically start around THB 1,200.
Smart Buses
The Smart Bus service connects the airport with major tourist areas such as Patong Beach, Kata Beach, and Karon Beach. The fares are economical (around THB 200), and buses run frequently throughout the day.
Car rentals
There are several international car rental companies at the airport, so you can get any of these vehicles there. However, it’s important to book in advance, especially during peak seasons.
Airport Shuttles
Many hotels offer complimentary shuttle services for their guests. So, you can check with your accommodation for availability.
Additional Travel Tips for Arriving in Phuket
When planning your trip to Phuket, there are some tips to remember to have the best experience. Some of these are:
- Book transportation in advance: Especially during peak tourist seasons, booking your transportation ahead of time can save you from long waits and ensure a smooth journey to your destination.
- Have local currency ready: While there are ATMs and currency exchange services available at the airport, having some Thai Baht on hand can be useful for immediate expenses like transportation and snacks.
- Stay connected: If you need to stay connected, consider purchasing a local SIM card or Wi-Fi package upon arrival. This can be particularly useful for navigation and staying in touch with your travel group.
- Know your terminal: Familiarize yourself with the terminal maps and services available. This will help you navigate the airport more efficiently and make use of the amenities offered.
- Pick the right accommodation: When it comes to picking where to stay, it is important to pick one that is comfortable and matches your aesthetic preferences. You want to be comfortable and enjoy your stay to the fullest. This is why we provide one of the best villas, prioritizing comfort and serenity.
Sarayah Phuket Villas: The Ideal Place to Stay
For those seeking accommodation on Phuket Island, look no further than Sarayah Phuket, an exquisite resort that embodies luxury and comfort. We provide two luxury villa rentals offering the choice of a private pool or stunning surroundings.
If you are a beach lover, you will love our villas. They are located just a twenty-minute drive from famous beaches like Surin Beach, Yamu Beach, Bang Tao Beach, and Mai Khao Beach.
Conclusion
By understanding the facilities and services at Phuket International Airport, as well as the transportation options available, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable start to your trip to this beautiful island destination. Make sure to choose Sarayah Phuket Villas to enjoy luxury and comfort.
