A Brief Overview of Phuket International Airport
Phuket Airport – or HKT Airport after its IATA Code- is the aviation hub serving one of the most popular destinations in the world. Indeed, HKT Airport handles flights from and to Phuket, the exotic island that lies in the southern part of Thailand and attracts millions of tourists annually. Since Phuket’s economy is clearly based on tourism, Phuket International Airport is a key factor for the island’s economic growth. Hence, it comes as no surprise that the airport connecting Phuket and its surrounding province is the third busiest in Thailand. In fact, in 2023, it welcomed 13.979.184 passengers (almost 14 million visitors).
HKT Airport is located north of the city of Phuket, on the north side of the island. It lies in the area of Mai Khao, in the district of Thalang, and is to be found 32 km/20 miles away from the city center of Phuket.
The busy airport handles numerous flights on a daily basis. In fact, it is estimated that it accommodates 260-280 flights per day. The majority of flights have China, Russia, and India as their origin or destination. However, European destinations are being served as well. Overall, Indians are reported to be the largest group of visitors landing at Phuket International Airport.
Interesting Fact: As Phuket Airport becomes more and more busy, reaching and expecting to exceed its pre-Covid-19 pandemic levels, the need for expansion is imperative. Moreover, plans for a new airport are also in place. That being said, the exact time of construction remains unknown.
Airport Name: Phuket International Airport
IATA Code: HKT
ICAO: VTSP
Location: Mai Khao, Thalang District, Phuket, Thailand
Time Zone: ICT (Indochina Time) UTC/GMT +7 hours
Airport Map: Phuket Airport at Google Maps
Phuket Airport’s Layout
Phuket International Airport consists of three terminal buildings. One terminal serves international flights, while the other is dedicated to flights from and to domestic destinations. Finally, TX (the third terminal of the HKT airport complex) handles charter flights and operates only during the airport’s busy times. Terminals are located close to each other. Thus, passengers need around 5-10 minutes to get from one terminal to another on foot. However, the terminals aren’t connected airside. On the other hand, the airport features only one runway.
HKT Airlines
More than 60 airlines are present at Phuket International Airport, handling flights from and to domestic and international destinations. Overall, low-cost air carriers and conventional providers offer their services at HKT Airport. Thus, the airport provides efficient connections to a wide number of destinations, from Asian cities to European capitals. Moreover, despite its medium size, it often serves as a transit aviation hub as well.
Parking Facilities
Phuket International Airport features the necessary parking facilities to handle its passengers’ needs. Thus, two Phuket airport parking lots accommodate short-term and long-stay parking. One car park lies close to the international terminal, while passengers departing from the domestic terminal can use the car park lying near the domestic terminal building. Both car parks provide a 15-minute free period.
Transit Options
Are you landing at the airport in Phuket and wondering how to reach the city center? You’ll find several options for your transit from Phuket Airport to Phuket Town. In detail, you can use:
- airport taxis
- airport car rentals
- private airport transfers
- shuttles/buses
Services and Amenities
Phuket International Airport isn’t a vast airport. Still, it offers its passengers an overall pleasant traveling experience, featuring various things to do as well as the necessary and anticipated-from-an-international-airport services and amenities. Some of them are:
- Duty-free areas / Retail stores
- Eateries, cafes, and bars
- Baggage carts / Luggage wrapping / Luggage Storage
- Self-check-in / Self baggage drop / Self-boarding gates
- Medical center / First aid room
- Bank / ATMs / Currency exchange areas
- Post office
- Visa on arrival
- Photo services for visa
- Family facilities (breastfeeding room)
- Playground
- Prayer room
- Lost & Found offices
- Lounges
- Wi-Fi
- Charging stations
- Information kiosks
- Special services and amenities for passengers with disabilities
Contact Info
Official Name: Phuket International Airport
Address: 222 Moo 6, Mai Khao Subdistrict, Thalang District, Phuket 83110, Thailand
Phone Number: +667-632-7230-7
The Island of Phuket
The biggest island in Thailand, Phuket, is one of the most renowned resort destinations globally. Indeed, it is perhaps the most popular tourist Thai destination. Highly valued for its idyllic beaches (Patong, Kata, Karon, etc.) and vibrant nightlife, Phuket features serene locations -ideal for calm escapes- and bustling beaches if you feel like enjoying lively vibes. However, Phuket isn’t just about the beaches. The island boasts a long history. Thus, various historical sites, such as the Bug Buddha and the Old Town, guarantee cultural and highly interesting experiences. On the other hand, Sino-Portuguese architecture leaves no visitor untouched. A stroll through the city’s colorful streets is considered one of the top things to do in Phuket. On the other hand, many travelers also opt for quick explorations of the nearby islands while being in Phuket, and watersports are also a popular activity. Last but not least, whether they’re foodies or not, the island’s visitors always appreciate tasting the mouthwatering local cuisine.
FAQs
Does Phuket have two airports?
No, Phuket International Airport is the only airport serving Phuket province. Despite being a medium-sized aviation hub, it is one of the busiest in Thailand. In fact, it is the third busiest Thai airport.
Where is Phuket International Airport?
The island of Phuket is to be found in the southern part of Thailand, while HKT Airport (Phuket Airport) is located in the northern part of the island. In detail, it lies in the area of Mai Khao, in the district of Thalang.
Is Phuket Airport crowded?
In general terms, HKT Airport is considered a passenger-friendly airport despite being one of the busiest air hubs in Thailand. Its terminals aren’t vast. Hence, transits around the airport are fast, as are the check-in, customs, and security procedures. That being said, during the peak tourist seasons, Phuket Airport can get crowded.
How much time is needed at Phuket Airport?
Are you flying to an international destination? Then, make sure to arrive at HKT Airport three hours before the departure of your flight. Conversely, if your destination is domestic, you should plan to be at the airport at least two hours ahead of your flight.
How many terminals does Phuket Airport have?
Phuket International Airport has two terminal buildings. One terminal serves international flights, while the other is dedicated to flights from and to domestic destinations. Moreover, a third terminal (TX) handles charter flights. In fact, it operates only during the peak tourist season to help decongest the other terminal buildings.
How far is Phuket Airport from the city?
Phuket International Airport is located on the north side of the island, northwest of the city of Phuket. In detail, it is to be found 32km/20 miles from the city center. Hence, a ride from Phuket Airport to Phuket usually takes around one hour.
What are the transportation options from Phuket Airport?
Phuket Airport is adequately connected to the city of Phuket and other popular destinations on the island. Thus, airport taxis and private airport transfers guarantee seamless rides to the passengers’ journey’s end, while shuttles and buses are the most affordable alternatives for the journey from Phuket Airport to Phuket Town. On the other hand, visitors enjoying independent journeys can also rent a car at HKT Airport.