BANGKOK, Thailand – The Ministry of Transport has introduced a new air connection linking Udon Thani, Bangkok, and Tokyo, featuring a single-check-in service to elevate Udon Thani Airport as a major regional aviation hub. Deputy Government Spokesperson Lalida Persvivatana stated that this initiative supports Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul’s goal of making Thailand a world-class aviation hub. Deputy Minister of Transport Phattrapong Phattraprasit recently welcomed the inaugural Thai Vietjet flight on the Udon Thani–Suvarnabhumi–Narita route. The flight offers the Sky ConX service, enabling passengers to check their baggage in Udon Thani and collect it at their final destination in Japan.
The Ministry of Transport is upgrading Udon Thani Airport’s infrastructure to obtain official international airport status. Recent enhancements include modifying Terminal B for full customs, immigration, and quarantine services, as well as expanding the runway and access roads. These improvements are intended to strengthen regional connectivity in the Mekong subregion and support new direct flights from Chinese cities such as Yiwu and Wuxi. In preparation for the Udon Thani International Horticultural Expo, scheduled from November 1, 2026, to March 14, 2027, the government is implementing a streamlined transportation plan. Authorities will provide daily shuttle buses between the airport and key event locations to accommodate the anticipated increase in visitors. Officials emphasized that these infrastructure projects aim to stimulate local economies, boost regional tourism, and strengthen Thailand’s position in the global aviation sector. (NNT)
