National —
On November 22nd, 2024, Dr. Kirati Kitmanawat, the CEO of Airports of Thailand (AOT), reported a net profit of 19.18 billion baht for FY2024 (Oct 2023 – Sept 2024), reflecting a strong recovery in the aviation sector.
Revenue rose by 40% to 67.83 billion baht, with aviation-related income increasing to 31 billion baht and non-aviation revenue reaching 36.12 billion baht. This growth was attributed to a significant rebound in international travel, reflecting a 34.82% rise in international passengers and a 29.63% increase in international flights.
Passenger traffic at AOT’s six airports—Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Phuket, and Hat Yai—hit 119.29 million, a 19% increase from the previous year.
Domestic passengers showed a modest growth of 1.01%. Looking ahead, FY2025 projections estimate a rise to 129.97 million passengers, just shy of pre-pandemic figures. This number includes domestic flights.
Beginning December 1st, AOT will fully implement a biometric facial recognition system across six major airports. This technology, which requires passenger consent, will streamline check-ins, security checks, and boarding without the need for physical passports or boarding passes.
Travelers will enjoy faster, more efficient service while maintaining high-security standards. TPN media notes that although fully implemented it may not be used for all flights or passengers and as noted if a passenger is uncomfortable with biometrics can utilize other options.
To accommodate New Year 2024 travelers, AOT is offering free parking at four airports: Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, Phuket, and Hat Yai.
At Suvarnabhumi, free parking is available in Long-Term Zone C from December 30th to January 1st, with shuttle buses connecting parking lots to terminals.
Similar arrangements are in place at Don Mueang, Phuket, and Hat Yai airports to facilitate an expected 2.86 million passengers during the holiday period.
AOT estimates nearly 17,410 flights will operate during the New Year peak, with international flights fully recovering to pre-COVID levels.
This article originally appeared on our sister website The Pattaya News.
