Chiang Mai Airport Sees Over 6.53 Million Passengers in First 8 Months, Expects Increase with Winter Schedule

Chiang Mai Airport has announced that in the first eight months of this year (January-August), it handled a total of 43,544 flights and served over 6.53 million passengers. This figure is roughly on par with the same period last year, with international travel showing a notable upward trend. International operations comprised 13,232 flights, accounting for 30.39% of the total. The number of international passengers reached approximately 1.95 million, representing 29.83% of all passengers. This marks a 14% increase compared to the same period last year, with tourists from China and South Korea collectively making up over 50% of international visitors using Chiang Mai Airport. Karan Thanakuljeerapat, the airport director, stated that following the easing of the COVID-19 pandemic, flight and passenger volumes at Chiang Mai Airport have been on a continuous annual rise. However, he noted that early in 2023, factors such as geopolitical tensions in the Middle East affected fuel prices and airline operating costs, influencing flight schedule planning. Consequently, the overall number of flights and passengers in the first eight months remained similar to the previous year. Looking ahead to the peak tourist season and the upcoming Winter Schedule, which commences in late October, an increase in both flights and passenger numbers is anticipated. For the entire year 2023, the airport expects to serve approximately 9.97 million passengers. This projection is driven by an increase in flight frequencies and the resumption of certain routes that were suspended during the summer schedule. The Winter Schedule will see five airlines operating six routes, enhancing travel options and connectivity between Chiang Mai and key international cities. Notably, routes such as Abu Dhabi–Chiang Mai–Abu Dhabi by Etihad Airways are set to resume after a summer break, and services to Jinghong (Xishuangbanna), Shanghai, and Incheon are expected to see increased frequencies or re-establishment. To accommodate the anticipated rise in flights and passengers during the high season, Chiang Mai Airport is enhancing its operational readiness. This includes managing terminal space and facilities, optimizing flight and passenger flow, and reinforcing aviation security. Furthermore, infrastructure development projects are progressing as planned. These include the installation of six new aircraft bridges, which have been fully operational since August 21, 2023, and urgent infrastructure upgrades such as the construction of a fire station, cargo terminal, Control Post 2, and ground support equipment (GSE) aprons, along with improvements to service systems and amenities. Karan concluded by emphasizing that Chiang Mai Airport, as the gateway to Northern Thailand, is prepared to handle the increased travel demand during the tourist season. The focus remains on efficient flight and passenger management, service quality, safety, and infrastructure development to support the growth of air travel and effectively connect Chiang Mai with both domestic and international destinations. Source: INN News