Phuket International Airport (HKT)

Phuket, TH 🇹🇭 Large International Airport Scheduled Service

ICAO

VTSP

IATA

HKT

Elevation

82 ft

Region

TH-83

Local Time

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Airport Information

GPS Code: VTSP

Local Code: Not available

Location: 8.1132° N, 98.316902° E

Continent: AS

Type: Large International Airport

Nearby Points of Interest

What Travelers Say

AI-Generated Summary Based on web research

Phuket International Airport (HKT) generally receives mixed to positive reviews from recent travelers, with some notable improvements in recent years. In 2024, Skytrax recognized HKT as one of the world's 10 most improved airports, reflecting efforts to enhance the traveler experience. While the airport is seen as modern and offers a range of amenities, some persistent issues, particularly regarding congestion during peak times, continue to affect traveler satisfaction.

What Travelers Love
  • Improved Efficiency (especially during off-peak): During quieter periods, particularly in the rainy season (e.g., September), travelers report shorter lines for security and immigration, and faster processing times.
  • Modern Facilities and Cleanliness: The airport is generally described as clean and modern, with good facilities. Many find the terminal to be well-maintained.
  • Variety of Transportation Options: A range of options are available for getting to and from the airport, including taxis, shared minivans, the Airport Bus to Phuket Town, and the Phuket Smart Bus to various beach destinations. Private transfers are also praised for being comfortable, clean, and prompt.
  • Helpful Signage: Travelers generally find the signage in both English and Thai to be clear and helpful.
Common Complaints
  • Long Immigration and Security Wait Times (peak season): During high season and peak hours, immigration and security queues can be very long, leading to significant delays and frustration. Some travelers have reported waiting for over an hour for immigration.
  • Crowding and Seating Limitations: The airport can get very crowded, especially in waiting areas past security, with a limited number of seats at the gates.
  • Disorganized Check-in and Baggage Claim: Some past reviews mention disorganization at check-in desks and issues with baggage claim, including small carousels and lack of staff to manage order.
  • Touts and Misleading Information: Travelers have reported issues with touts outside the airport trying to direct them to more expensive or incorrect transportation options, and misleading information at some airport cafes.
  • Limited Food and Drink Options Post-Security: Some reviews indicate that the selection of food and beverage outlets is more extensive before security, with fewer choices and potentially higher prices once airside.

Overall, Phuket International Airport offers a generally good experience, particularly with recent improvements, but travelers should be prepared for potential delays and crowding, especially during peak travel periods. Utilizing pre-booked private transfers or ride-sharing apps like Bolt or Grab is often recommended for smoother transportation, and allowing ample time for airport procedures is advisable.

Generated True 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 Phuket International Airport
Airlines by Flight Activity
Based on observed flight operations and route network
Airline Routes Flights Destinations Last Activity
4 88 4 Oct 23, 2025
Bangkok
BKP / PG
3 86 3 Nov 3, 2025
2 52 2 Oct 23, 2025
Thai Lion
TLM / SL
1 39 1 Oct 23, 2025
1 34 1 Sep 6, 2025
IndiGO
IGO / 6E
4 24 4 Sep 6, 2025
Nok Air
NOK / DD
1 24 1 Oct 23, 2025
AirAsia
AXM / AK
1 21 1 Oct 23, 2025
1 20 1 Nov 19, 2025
Air Arabia
ABY / G9
1 18 1 Oct 23, 2025
For Pilots

Designation Length Width Surface Status
09/27 9843 ft 148 ft ASP Active Lighted

Type Description Frequency
APP APP 124.7 MHz
ATIS ATIS 128.0 MHz
GND GND 121.9 MHz
TWR TWR 118.1 MHz

Ident Name Type Frequency
PU Phuket NDB 360 kHz
PUT Phuket VOR-DME 116900 kHz

Ground Transportation

Last updated: Nov 21, 2025
Taxis

Metered taxis are available at a stand outside the arrivals hall; an airport surcharge applies. Pre-paid 'Airport Limousine' services offer fixed-price fares from counters inside the terminal. Ride-hailing apps like Grab are also a popular option.

Rental Cars

Several international and local car rental companies, including Avis, Hertz, Sixt, and Budget, have service counters within the arrivals halls of both the domestic and international terminals. It is advisable to book in advance, especially during peak tourist season.

Public Transportation

The Phuket Smart Bus is an affordable option, running from the airport along the west coast to major beaches like Patong, Karon, and Kata. The orange Airport Bus provides service to Phuket Town. Shared minivans are also available from counters in the arrivals hall, offering a cost-effective way to reach popular areas by grouping passengers.

Nearby Airports

Krabi Airport
KBV • VTSG
Krabi, TH
Medium Airport Scheduled Service
~74 km away
Surat Thani Airport
URT • VTSB
Surat Thani, TH
Medium Airport Scheduled Service
~144 km away
Krabi Airport
KBV • VTSG
Krabi, TH
Medium Airport Scheduled Service
~74 km away
Surat Thani Airport
URT • VTSB
Surat Thani, TH
Medium Airport Scheduled Service
~144 km away
Phuket Airpark
VTSW
Talang, TH
Small Airport
~14 km away
Skydance Helipad
TH-0041
NoneTH
Heliport
~4 km away
Distances are approximate and calculated as straight-line distances.