Located in Songkhla Province of southern Thailand, Hat Yai International Airport (IATA: HDY) serves as the primary aviation hub for the region. Situated approximately 9 kilometers from Hat Yai city center, this vital transportation facility is operated by Airports of Thailand (AOT) and plays a crucial role in regional connectivity, particularly for Muslim pilgrims traveling to Mecca.
KEY FACTS: The airport features a 3,050-meter runway capable of handling various aircraft types, processes over 1.5 million passengers annually, and serves as a base for major carriers including AirAsia and Bangkok Airways.
INFRASTRUCTURE AND OPERATIONS
Construction of Hat Yai International Airport began in 1990, with operations commencing in 1996. The airport's infrastructure includes:
- A single 3,050-meter runway (45m wide) at 27 meters above sea level
- Seven taxiways and 56,461 square meters of apron space
- Capacity to handle 30 flight movements per hour
These facilities enable the airport to efficiently manage its annual traffic of approximately 9,500 flights while maintaining high operational standards.
CONNECTIVITY AND ECONOMIC IMPACT
Hat Yai International Airport serves both domestic and international markets, offering connections to major Thai cities and Southeast Asian destinations. The airport's annual cargo handling capacity of 12,000 metric tons significantly contributes to regional trade and logistics.
Major airlines operating at the airport include:
- AirAsia (domestic and regional routes)
- Bangkok Airways (domestic network)
- Other regional carriers serving international destinations
PASSENGER EXPERIENCE
The airport offers modern amenities to enhance traveler comfort, including:
- Comfortable waiting areas
- Duty-free shopping options
- Diverse food and beverage outlets
- Car rental services
Ongoing technological upgrades continue to improve operational efficiency and passenger satisfaction.
REGIONAL SIGNIFICANCE
As southern Thailand's largest commercial airport, Hat Yai International serves as:
1. A critical transportation hub for the Lower Southern region
2. An economic catalyst supporting tourism and trade
3. A cultural bridge facilitating international exchanges
Its strategic location makes it an ideal gateway for exploring southern Thailand's unique cultural heritage and natural attractions, attracting visitors from across the globe.
