Overview
Samui Airport is a privately owned airport on the island of Koh Samui in Thailand. It is one of the country’s busiest airports, serving over 1.8 million passengers per year. The airport is located about 2 kilometers from the main town and serves as a gateway to other tourist destinations in the Gulf of Thailand.
The airport features a single runway that can accommodate large aircraft such as Boeing 747s and Airbus A340s. There are two terminals: Terminal 1 for international flights and Terminal 2 for domestic flights. The airport offers amenities such as duty-free shopping, restaurants, and cafes.
Transportation to and from the airport is available through taxis, minivans, and private car services. The airport also has a shuttle service to popular areas on the island such as Chaweng Beach and Lamai Beach.
Operated by Bangkok Airways, Samui Airport has won numerous awards for its design and services. It is known for its unique open-air concept, with its terminals featuring lush gardens and waterfalls. The airport also has a rooftop observation deck where visitors can watch planes take off and land while enjoying a panoramic view of the island.
Overall, Samui Airport is a modern and well-equipped airport that provides a convenient and pleasant travel experience for visitors to Koh Samui.
Terminals at Samui Airport
Samui International Airport is the main airport serving Koh Samui, an island in Thailand. The airport has a single terminal building that serves both international and domestic flights. The terminal building is designed to handle up to 16 flights per hour, and it can handle up to 6 million passengers annually.
The terminal building at Samui Airport is modern and well-equipped. Passengers will find a range of facilities and amenities here, including restaurants, cafes, bars, and duty-free shops. There are also ATMs and currency exchange services available, as well as a post office and a pharmacy.
One of the unique features of the terminal building at Samui Airport is its open-air design. The building is designed to allow natural light and fresh air into the terminal, creating a comfortable and welcoming environment for passengers.
The terminal building is divided into several sections, including domestic arrivals, international arrivals, and departures. Passengers arriving on domestic flights will use the same terminal building as those arriving on international flights, but there are separate immigration and customs areas for each group of passengers.
For departing passengers, the terminal building offers a range of check-in counters, as well as self-check-in kiosks and online check-in options. There are also security checkpoints and immigration counters for departing passengers.
Overall, the terminal building at Samui Airport is a well-designed and efficient space that offers a range of facilities and amenities for passengers. Whether you’re arriving in Koh Samui or departing for your next destination, you’ll find everything you need here to make your journey comfortable and enjoyable.
Airlines and Destinations
The following airlines operate from Samui Airport: Bangkok Airways, Thai Airways, SilkAir, AirAsia, Firefly, and Berjaya Air.
Bangkok Airways operates the most flights, serving both domestic and international destinations including Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Hong Kong, and Guangzhou.
Thai Airways offers daily flights to Bangkok. SilkAir operates flights to Singapore. AirAsia serves domestic routes to Bangkok and to international destination Kuala Lumpur. Firefly operates flights to Kuala Lumpur. Berjaya Air provides a direct flight to Singapore.
Seasonal changes affect some of the airlines. For example, Bangkok Airways increases its frequency of flights during peak tourist seasons. SilkAir operates seasonal flights during the winter months. It’s always best to check with the airline for the latest flight schedules.
Transportation Options at Samui Airport
Samui Airport, also known as Koh Samui Airport, is located on the beautiful island of Koh Samui in Thailand. It is a small airport that mainly serves domestic flights from Bangkok and other cities in Thailand, as well as international flights from nearby countries like Singapore and Hong Kong.
There are several transportation options available at Samui Airport for travelers to get to their destination. The most popular option is to take a shuttle bus or a private transfer directly to your hotel or resort. These shuttles can be booked in advance or upon arrival at the airport. They are reliable, efficient, and affordable, making them a great option for solo travelers or couples.
For those who prefer more freedom and flexibility, car rentals are also available at the airport. There are several rental companies to choose from, including Avis, Hertz, and Budget. Renting a car allows travelers to explore the island at their own pace and visit some of the more remote areas that may not be accessible by shuttle or public transportation.
Another option is to take a shuttle bus from the airport to the main tourist areas on the island. These buses run regularly throughout the day and are a great option for budget-conscious travelers. They are also a great way to meet other travelers and get tips on the best places to visit on the island.
For those who are more adventurous, there are also train lines that run through the island, offering a unique way to explore Koh Samui. These trains are not as popular as the other transportation options, but they are a fun and exciting way to see the island from a different perspective.
Overall, there are many transportation options available at Samui Airport to suit all budgets and travel styles. From shuttles to car rentals to public transportation, travelers can easily get to their destination and start enjoying all that Koh Samui has to offer.
Parking at Samui Airport
Samui Airport provides various parking options for its passengers. The airport has both short-term and long-term parking facilities, which are conveniently located near the terminal building.
For short-term parking, passengers can park their vehicles in the designated parking area situated just outside the terminal building. The parking rates for short-term parking start at 50 Baht per hour, with a maximum of 400 Baht per day.
For long-term parking, the airport offers an outdoor lot that is located a short shuttle ride away from the terminal building. The parking rates for long-term parking start at 150 Baht per day, with a maximum of 800 Baht per week.
Passengers can also opt for Valet Parking services, offering them a hassle-free option for parking their cars. The Valet Parking service is available at the arrival and departure terminals and costs approximately 600 Baht per day.
The airport also features handicapped-friendly parking spaces in both short-term and long-term parking areas. These parking spaces are provided free of charge to individuals with disabilities.
In conclusion, Samui Airport offers a range of parking options to cater to the needs of its passengers. Passengers are advised to plan their parking requirements in advance to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience at the airport.
Check-In Procedures
At Samui Airport, passengers have three options to check-in: online, self-service, and traditional methods.
For online check-in, passengers can access the airline’s website or mobile app from 24 hours before flight departure until one hour before departure. After logging in, they can select their preferred seat and receive a QR code or boarding pass via email or mobile device.
Self-service kiosks are also available at the airport for passengers who prefer to check-in on-site. These kiosks can be used up to two hours before departure and allow passengers to print their boarding pass and baggage tags. After obtaining the necessary documents, passengers can drop off their tagged luggage at the designated counter.
Finally, traditional check-in counters are available at the airport for those who prefer to have their documents issued by an airline representative. Passengers can go directly to these counters or approach the priority check-in counters if eligible.
Regardless of the chosen method, passengers are expected to arrive early and allow enough time for the check-in process. Once checked in, they can proceed to passport control and security screening before heading to the departure area.
It is important to note that specific check-in requirements may vary depending on the airline and destination, so passengers should check with their carrier before arriving at the airport.
Security Measures at Samui Airport
At Samui Airport, security is taken seriously to ensure the safety of all passengers.
Upon arrival, passengers are required to undergo a security screening process that includes a baggage scan and personal body search.
To help make the process as smooth as possible, it is recommended that passengers remove their jackets, belts, and shoes before entering the screening area.
Additionally, any liquids or gels over 100ml should be packed in checked luggage to avoid delays during screening.
Passengers should also ensure that all electronic devices are charged and ready for inspection.
By following these tips, passengers can help ensure a smooth and efficient security check at Samui Airport.
Customs and Immigration Procedures at Samui Airport
Upon arrival at Samui Airport, passengers must present their passport, visa (if applicable), and completed arrival card to immigration officers. Passengers may also be asked to provide proof of onward travel and accommodation during their stay.
After clearing immigration, passengers must collect their luggage at the baggage claim area before proceeding to Customs. Here, all luggage will be subject to inspection to ensure that no prohibited items are being brought into the country.
For departing passengers, the process is similar but reversed. Passengers must present their passport and boarding pass at check-in before proceeding to immigration. Again, they may be asked to provide proof of onward travel and accommodation during their stay.
After clearing immigration, passengers can proceed to the departure lounge where they will go through security screening before boarding their flight. It is important to note that liquids over 100ml are not allowed in carry-on luggage and must be checked in instead.
Amenities
- Restaurants and cafés offering a variety of cuisines and drinks
- Duty-free and souvenir shops selling local products, clothing, and gadgets
- ATMs and currency exchange counters for convenient money transactions
- Free Wi-Fi access throughout the airport premises
- Children’s play area to keep your kids entertained and engaged
- Luggage storage and wrapping services for hassle-free travel experience
- Medical assistance and pharmacy for emergencies and health concerns
- Lounges and waiting areas with comfortable seating and charging facilities
- Car rental and transportation services for your convenience
Accessibility Services
Samui Airport provides a range of facilities and services for passengers with disabilities or mobility issues.
These include wheelchair-accessible ramps, elevators, and toilets, as well as dedicated parking spaces.
Passengers can request for assistance at the airport’s information desk or during the booking process.
The airport also offers special seating arrangements on flights and allows service animals to accompany passengers.
Overall, Samui Airport prioritizes the comfort and convenience of all its passengers, regardless of their abilities.
Connecting Flights at Samui Airport
Connecting flights at Samui Airport can be a breeze if you know what to do.
First, make sure to check the departure time of your connecting flight and arrive at the airport with plenty of time to spare.
If you have checked baggage, confirm that it will be transferred to your next flight.
Follow signs for connecting flights and proceed to the boarding gate for your next flight.
If you have to go through security again, be sure to remove all liquids and electronics from your carry-on bags before placing them on the conveyor belt.
Keep your boarding pass and ID easily accessible and stay mindful of time.
By following these tips, you can comfortably catch your connecting flight at Samui Airport.
Baggage Claim and Lost Property
Once your flight arrives at Samui Airport, you can proceed to the baggage claim area to retrieve your luggage. Your baggage will typically arrive on a conveyor belt, and you should check the screens for information about which belt to go to.
If you cannot locate your baggage, or if it has been damaged in transit, you should proceed to the lost property desk to file a report. You will need to provide details about your missing or damaged baggage, such as its color, size, and any distinguishing features.
A representative from the airline will then work with you to track down your missing bag or to file a claim for any damage that has occurred. It’s important to report any issues with your baggage as soon as possible after your flight arrives to increase the likelihood of recovering your bag or obtaining compensation for damage.
Emergency and Medical Facilities
In case of an emergency, Samui Airport has a team of trained medical professionals ready to provide immediate assistance. The airport also has a well-equipped medical center that is equipped to handle various types of medical emergencies.
Additionally, the airport has an ambulance service on standby to transport patients to nearby hospitals if necessary. The airport also has defibrillators located throughout the terminal for cardiac emergencies.
Passengers in need of medical assistance are encouraged to notify airport staff immediately. In case of a serious medical emergency, passengers should dial 1669 for emergency medical services.
Hotel Accommodations
There are various hotels available within and near the Samui Airport. These hotels offer excellent facilities and accommodations to their guests.
Some of the hotels near Samui Airport include Avani+ Samui Resort (3.1 km), Muang Samui Spa Resort (2.4 km), Banyan Tree Samui (3.2 km), Shasa Resort & Residences, Koh Samui (4.5 km), and Vana Belle, a Luxury Collection Resort, Koh Samui (8.2 km).
All of these hotels provide top-notch services, including comfortable rooms, swimming pools, spa treatments, and dining options. Visitors can choose from budget-friendly hotels to luxurious resorts, depending on their preferences and requirements.
Staying in one of these hotels near Samui Airport ensures that visitors have convenient access to the airport and can enjoy a comfortable and relaxing stay on the island of Koh Samui.
Useful Tips
Whether you’re arriving or departing, Samui Airport can be a breeze to navigate with these insider tips. First, make sure to arrive early, as lines at check-in and security can sometimes get long.
If you have baggage to check, consider using the baggage drop-off stations before heading to the main check-in area.
Another helpful hint is to bring an empty water bottle through security and fill it up at one of the water stations inside the terminal.
In terms of dining options, there are several restaurants and cafes to choose from, including both local and international cuisine.
Lastly, if you are departing from Samui Airport, make sure to check the flight status boards regularly, as flights can sometimes experience delays due to weather conditions.
Contact Information
Airport Information Center: +66-77-902-000
Lost & Found: +66-77-425-018 or [email protected]
Medical Service: +66-77-429-500
Immigration Office: +66-77-420-015 or [email protected]
Tourism Authority of Thailand: +66-77-427-420 or [email protected]
Customs: +66-77-420-065 or [email protected]
Police Station: +66-77-420-057 or [email protected]
Airports Near Samui Airport
If you’re looking for alternative flight options or have a layover or connecting flight, there are several airports near Samui Airport:
- Surat Thani International Airport: Located 133 km away from Samui Airport, Surat Thani International Airport is accessible by bus, minivan, or private car. The journey takes approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes.
- Nakhon Si Thammarat Airport: Situated 154 km away from Samui Airport, Nakhon Si Thammarat Airport can be reached by bus or private car. The journey takes approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes.
It’s important to note that transportation options may vary depending on your budget and preferences. Be sure to plan your journey accordingly to avoid any travel mishaps.