U-tapao to get second runway

U-tapao to get second runway

The Transport Ministry is planning a second runway at U-tapao airport in Rayong to boost the country's ability to handle commercial flights.

Chadchat: ‘Will ease Suvarnabhumi strain’

Transport Minister Chadchat Sittipunt has ordered the Department of Civil Aviation to conduct a feasibility study into the construction of a second runway at U-tapao airport. It will be developed into the latest fully operational commercial airport along with Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang airports.

U-tapao is undergoing a 200-million-baht development project to increase its capacity to accommodate 3 million passengers annually. It currently handles 600,000 passengers per year.

The minister expects the expanded airport to serve tourists heading to the eastern provinces.

"Many chartered flights call at U-tapao airport. In the future it will be connected by a high-speed railway. I believe passenger demand will rise then," the minister said.

U-tapao airport must be developed for commercial use along with its security functions to support future growth, Mr Chadchat said.

The minister will have staff of the Department of Civil Aviation discuss the development with the navy, which oversees U-tapao airport.

"The capacity expansion of U-tapao airport will help relieve congestion at Suvarnabhumi, where the construction of a third runway may be delayed. The second runway of U-tapao airport can be built quickly and requires a smaller investment," Mr Chadchat said.

Suvarnabhumi's third runway project is facing strong opposition from locals who fear more noise pollution.

The transport minister also has plans to upgrade Khuan Khan airport in Satun province, and Surin Phakdi airport in Surin province.

Khuan Khan airport is under the control of the air force and Surin Phakdi airport is supervised by the army.

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