PHUKET INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT (HKT) INFORMATION

Located in the north of Thailand's Phuket Island, the international airport of Phuket is just 32 kilometers from central Phuket City and well connected by road to most parts of the island and its popular tourist attractions. Situated in the Thalang District of Phuket, the airport is the second busiest airport in Thailand, serving more than 14 million passengers every year. Phuket International Airport is the gateway to around 37 different destinations across the globe. On Phuket tourists are never far away from stunning attractions, some man-made, but most provided by nature. Like Patong Beach for example, just a 40-minute ride by rental car from Phuket airport.

Arriving and taking off at Phuket provides passengers with a little thrill every time, for the airport lies directly behind Mai Khao Beach. During peak season, aircraft approach right over this beach before landing safely. Departure flights allow passengers breathtaking views across Phang Nga Bay.

Arrivals at Phuket International Airport

It's advisable to complete the arrival cards for immigration before landing, as the 15 or so counters at the terminal can be very busy during peak season. The arrivals hall is equipped with 8 customs counters and five baggage carousels, where passengers can collect their luggage. Beyond this area, there are ATM's and places where cash can be exchanged. Some car rental companies have their service counters in the arrivals hall, others are signposted, as their pick-up and drop off areas are just outside the terminal building.

Phuket International Airport also has lifts, telephones and toilet facilities for people with mobility problems and bus stops and a taxi stand are also within a short walk just outside the terminal.

Departures from Phuket International Airport

If you are planning to board international flights, queues can be long at security, so it's best to arrive at least 3 hours in advance of your take-off time. For domestic flights it's not quite so long – an hour prior to take-off is sufficient to get you through security. Getting your bearings in this small and compact airport is easy. Gates are easily reached, bur finding a good selection of duty-free shops is a little harder. A huge duty-free shopping mall located near Phuket Town is a better option, if you're looking for last-minute bargains and presents for home. There is, however, a sufficient choice of snack bars and restaurants at the Departure Hall, as well as places, where currency can be exchanged and ATM's, where passengers can obtain cash for their journey home.

Airline Services at Phuket Airport

See all airlines and routes that serve Phuket Airport.

Getting to and from Phuket International Airport

Phuket Airport Buses are cheap and run every hour from Phuket Airport to the main tourist areas such as Patong, Kata and Karon Beaches, as well as Phuket City. Bus tickets can be bought from the counter located by the terminal exit or directly from the driver, depending on the buses destination. Orange buses head from the terminal to Phuket Town between the hours of 6.30 am to 9.30 pm. Cream-coloured buses leave the terminal from its northern end, heading to Patong, Kata and Karon Beaches from 7.30 am onwards.

The Taxi Meter stand is located just outside the terminal. Taxi Meter services are quite different from the limousine services advertised at several counters inside the terminal. These may be more luxurious and comfortable, but they are also a lot more expensive. It is far better to arrange limousine services in advance, from home or your hotel, because that way the price can be fixed in advance. Taxi Meter vehicles are best for short-distance travel and are far cheaper, although an airport fee of around 100 Baht applies to each fare. As the name implies, the journeys are metered and therefore fairly charged.

Car Rental at Phuket International Airport

Car rental providers at the Phuket airport terminals include Thai Rent A Car, National, Pure Car Rent, Sixt, Avis, Europcar, Budget and Hertz. But there are many more, who arrange for pick-up at the airport and drop-offs at the desired destination. Phuket Airport car rental is available around the clock. Thai Rent A Car and National for example offer 24-hour services.

Hotels near Phuket Airport

There are a number of hotels to suit all budgets and requirements at or near Phuket Airport.

Parking at Phuket Airport

See options for parking services at Phuket Airport.

Additional Services and Amenities at Phuket Airport

At Phuket Airport you will find the usual array of bars and restaurants, airport lounges and shops.

• See all bars and restaurants inside Phuket Airport
• See and book airport lounges at Phuket Airport
• Plan your shopping in advance - see all the shops (including duty-free) at Phuket Airport

Things to do in Phuket Island

There are a number of activities to suit all ages and interests in the region - see a selection of tourist activities in Phuket, Thailand.