The U‑Tapao Airport and Eastern Aviation City development is a flagship infrastructure initiative under the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC). Its primary goal is to upgrade U‑Tapao into Thailand’s third major international airport, seamlessly connecting with Don Mueang and Suvarnabhumi airports. Linked by the upcoming high‑speed rail, these three hubs will be able to handle up to 200 million passengers annually.
Beyond aviation, the project will create a business development hub focused on tourism, logistics, and aviation — transforming the area into the “Eastern Aviation Metropolis.” This aligns with the Eastern Seaboard’s vision of becoming a major port and business city, extending Bangkok’s connectivity eastward by land, sea, and air, and positioning Thailand as an aviation hub and economic gateway to Asia.
Project Location
The development spans over 6,500 rai in Phala Subdistrict, Ban Chang District, Rayong Province, within the Eastern Aviation City promotion zone — a location strategically close to Pattaya and prime Pattaya neighbourhoods that stand to benefit from improved connectivity.
Current Status of U‑Tapao Airport
- Runway — 3,500 m long, 60 m wide, with 52 aircraft parking spots; capacity for up to 20 million passengers/year.
- Terminal 1 — Handles ~700,000 passengers annually.
- Terminal 2 — Will increase capacity to ~3 million passengers/year (currently ~1.5 million).
Given its location near Bangkok and the eastern region — a magnet for global investors — the long‑term target is to accommodate at least 60 million passengers/year.
Investment and Development
The project involves major investments in commercial airport services and industrial development in business and aviation. This will create an attractive environment for domestic and international investors, expand EEC opportunities, and enhance human resource potential for sustainable growth.
For more on how infrastructure projects impact property values, see Property Capital Appreciation: Why Bangsaray Is One to Watch.
Future Projections
By 2025–2026, with the opening of the third passenger terminal (via private investment), U‑Tapao is expected to handle ~8 million passengers/year. With Don Mueang forecast to exceed capacity in the same period, U‑Tapao’s role in meeting future air travel demand is critical.
For insight into how the EEC is reshaping the region, read Pattaya: Still the Beating Heart of Thailand’s Eastern Economic Corridor.
Economic Impact
With a total investment of USD 6.23 billion, the project will:
- Drive national economic growth
- Support the aviation industry
- Address future air travel demand
- Promote sustainable development
It will also enhance the appeal of Pattaya real estate and Thailand property markets, especially for investors seeking opportunities tied to infrastructure growth.
Conclusion
The U‑Tapao Airport and Eastern Aviation City project is more than an airport upgrade — it’s a catalyst for regional transformation. By integrating with high‑speed rail and the EEC, it will boost tourism, trade, and the expat lifestyle Pattaya offers, while creating long‑term opportunities for investors and residents alike.
Author: Mr. KC Cuijpers
For more information: Please contact Town & Country Property – [email protected]
