Samui Airport (USM)

Na Thon (Ko Samui Island), TH 🇹🇭 Medium Airport Scheduled Service

ICAO

VTSM

IATA

USM

Elevation

64 ft

Region

TH-84

Local Time

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Airport Information

GPS Code: VTSM

Local Code: Not available

Location: 9.54779° N, 100.061996° E

Continent: AS

Type: Medium Airport

Nearby Points of Interest

What Travelers Say

AI-Generated Summary Based on web research

Samui Airport (VTSM/USM) consistently receives high praise from travelers, often described as a unique and beautiful resort-like airport that enhances the overall holiday experience. The general sentiment is highly positive, with many appreciating its open-air design and relaxed atmosphere, making it a pleasant start or end to a trip.

What Travelers Love
  • Unique Open-Air Design and Ambiance: Travelers frequently highlight the airport's distinct open-air terminals with thatched roofs, lush gardens, and tropical flowers, creating a serene and resort-like atmosphere. Many find it a refreshing change from typical enclosed airports.
  • Efficient Check-in and Immigration: The check-in process is generally described as efficient with no long queues, and immigration for international arrivals is typically smooth and quick, especially since it often handles only one international flight at a time.
  • Complimentary Amenities: Bangkok Airways (which owns and operates the airport) provides complimentary snacks and drinks at the gates for all passengers, and free Wi-Fi is also available, particularly for Bangkok Airways passengers.
  • Beautiful Facilities and Shopping: The airport features charming market-style shops, boutiques, cafes, and restaurants, particularly in Samui Park Avenue, offering local treats and souvenirs. There are also comfortable seating areas, including bean bags and hammocks.
  • Friendly Staff: Many reviews commend the warm, helpful, and laid-back staff, contributing to the overall pleasant island vibe.
Common Complaints
  • Cleanliness Issues (Toilets & General Areas): Some recent reviews (July 2024) mention that while the airport is generally cool, the cleanliness isn't always the best, specifically noting dirty and smelly toilets and insects.
  • Heat (Lack of Air Conditioning): Due to the open-air design, there is little to no air conditioning outside of offices and gift shops, which can make the airport feel uncomfortably hot for some, especially in warm weather.
  • Wi-Fi Connectivity: A few travelers have reported poor or unreliable Wi-Fi connectivity.
  • Expensive On-Airport Transportation: Taxis from the airport can be significantly more expensive than ride-hailing apps like Grab or Bolt if booked outside the airport premises.
  • Monopoly of Flights: Bangkok Airways largely has a near-monopoly on flights to and from Samui, leading to potentially higher flight costs compared to other routes.

Overall, Samui Airport offers a truly memorable and pleasant travel experience due to its unique open-air, resort-like design and efficient services. While some minor issues regarding cleanliness and the lack of widespread air conditioning exist, these are often overshadowed by the airport's charming ambiance, friendly staff, and convenient facilities, making it a delightful gateway to Ko Samui.

Generated False weeks ago
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This summary is automatically generated by AI based on web research of traveler reviews and experiences. AI-generated content may not always be 100% accurate.

Current Weather Conditions

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Airport Routes

Popular Flight Routes
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Destination IATA City Aircraft Type Airline Details Route Map
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Top Airlines

Operating at Samui Airport
Airlines by Flight Activity
Based on observed flight operations and route network
Airline Routes Flights Destinations Last Activity
Bangkok
BKP / PG
8 141 8 Dec 6, 2025
Scoot
TGW / TR
1 11 1 Nov 29, 2025
For Pilots

Designation Length Width Surface Status
17/35 6759 ft 148 ft ASP Active Lighted

Type Description Frequency
APP APP 129.6 MHz
ATIS ATIS 128.6 MHz
TWR TWR 118.9 MHz

Ident Name Type Frequency
SM Samui NDB 316 kHz
SMU Samui VOR-DME 117600 kHz

Ground Transportation

Last updated: Nov 21, 2025
Taxis

Official airport taxis and private transfers are readily available. You can find the transport counter in the arrivals hall where you can book a taxi. Fares are typically fixed based on the destination zone (e.g., Chaweng, Lamai, Bophut). This is the most direct but also the most expensive option.

Rental Cars

Several major car rental companies, including Avis, Hertz, Sixt, and Budget, as well as local providers, have service desks within the arrivals area. It is highly recommended to book your vehicle in advance, especially during peak season. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is often required along with your standard driver's license.

Public Transportation

The main form of public transport from the airport is a shared minivan service. You can buy a ticket at the transport counter for a fixed per-person price to major beach areas. This is a cost-effective option, but the van will make multiple stops to drop off other passengers. For the cheapest option, you can walk to the main road outside the airport to hail a 'songthaew' (a red pickup truck taxi).

Nearby Airports

Surat Thani Airport
URT • VTSB
Surat Thani, TH
Medium Airport Scheduled Service
~112 km away
Nakhon Si Thammarat Airport
NST • VTSF
Nakhon Si Thammarat, TH
Medium Airport Scheduled Service
~112 km away
Chumphon Airport
CJM • VTSE
Chumphon, TH
Medium Airport Scheduled Service
~150 km away
Surat Thani Airport
URT • VTSB
Surat Thani, TH
Medium Airport Scheduled Service
~112 km away
Nakhon Si Thammarat Airport
NST • VTSF
Nakhon Si Thammarat, TH
Medium Airport Scheduled Service
~112 km away
Cha Eian Airport
VTSN
Nakhon Si Thammarat, TH
Medium Airport
~120 km away
Chumphon Airport
CJM • VTSE
Chumphon, TH
Medium Airport Scheduled Service
~150 km away
Distances are approximate and calculated as straight-line distances.