Suvarnabhumi expands: New terminal inaugurated and future secured

On March 20, 2025, the new Midfield Satellite 1 Terminal (SAT-1) vid Suvarnabhumi Airport officially. The terminal is built to international standards and is expected to handle up to 15 million passengers annually. Thanks to an automated People Mover system (APM) travelers can easily move between SAT-1 and the main terminal.

The terminal has not only impressed with its functionality – in 2024, SAT-1 won the prestigious Prix ​​Versailles Prize in architecture, with special recognition for its exterior design. The award is presented by UNESCO and recognizes buildings that combine beauty, innovation and sustainability.

An airport with history and royal blessing

Suvarnabhumi Airport was inaugurated in 2006 after several decades of planning. As early as 1973, Thai authorities purchased land in the area Nong Ngu Hao i Samut Prakan, east of Bangkok. Construction only started in 2002. The airport officially opened on September 28, 2006, replacing Don Mueang as the country's main international airport.

Namnet S, meaning “Land of the Fields of Gold”, was chosen by King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX). The airport is now a hub for Thai Airways, Bangkok Airways and several low-cost carriers, with direct flights to over 120 international destinations.

Overload became the driving force for new expansion

The airport was originally built to handle 45 million passengers per year, but even before the pandemic it was handling over 65 million. To meet the growing travel demand, several expansions have become necessary.

With the new SAT-1 terminal, capacity has increased significantly. But even bigger changes await – construction will begin in 2025. Terminal 2, which will be located north of the main terminal. The project is expected to be completed in 2029 and will add an additional 30 million passengers per year.

When all parts are completed, Suvarnabhumi will be able to handle up to 100 million passengers annually – more than double the number when it opened in 2006.

Thailand's goal: To become Southeast Asia's leading aviation hub

The expansion is part of Thailand's long-term plan to strengthen the country's role as a regional hub for air traffic, tourism and trade. Suvarnabhumi competes with airports such as Singapore Changi and Kuala Lumpur International and has several technical advantages:

• One of the world's longest runways (4.000 meters)
• One of the world's tallest air traffic control towers
• Direct connections to over 120 cities globally

With increased capacity, modern technology and internationally recognized design, Suvarnabhumi now has its sights set on becoming one of the world's most efficient and attractive airports.

Text: The editorial staff

Image license: Nord794ub, Wikimedia, original image