Ambitious plans for U-tapao airport near Pattaya
U-tapao airport also plays an important role in the plans for the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) near Pattaya. The government is now making plans for an additional terminal and a second runway at the airport in Rayong. Together with Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang, the airport must become an aviation hub for the east coast and thus an economic booster for the area.
An American consultancy firm has now been commissioned to draw up a plan for the further development of U-tapao. The plan is not only limited to the development of the airport, but also concerns the technical hub for aviation that will play a role in the area. Such as maintenance, repair and renovation of aircraft, logistics and a training center for aviation personnel. Thai Airways International and Airbus have already signed a draft agreement on that maintenance center.
Director Worapol (see photo) of the U-tapao Airport Authority (UAA) wants a second runway with a length of 3.500 meters. A year later, a new terminal with a capacity of 15 million passengers per year is planned.
The UAA expects passenger numbers to increase by 10 to 12 percent annually. The new terminal at U-tapao, which is almost ready, can handle 3 million passengers a year. It is expected to open in August this year.
Source: Bangkok Post
Yesterday, April 4, 2017, the second terminal was officially opened.
Many “Bo bo's” ( = VIPS) neatly dressed in black took the opportunity to see
and to be seen.