U-Tapao Airport: EEC Construction Begins Spring 2025
After years of stagnation, the ambitious U-Tapao airport and Eastern Aviation City project in Thailand’s Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) is poised for takeoff, with construction scheduled to begin between April and May 2025. This revitalized timeline follows prolonged delays attributed to the COVID-19 pandemic and uncertainties surrounding a connected high-speed rail project.
The development, a cornerstone of the EEC’s vision to become a high-tech industrial and tourism hub, faced significant headwinds since its inception. The pandemic disrupted global supply chains and investment decisions, halting progress for nearly three years. Further complicating matters, the project developer, U-Tapao International Aviation Co (UTA), awaited clarity on the concurrent high-speed rail link connecting U-Tapao with Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang airports in Bangkok. This crucial rail link, intended to seamlessly integrate the new airport into Thailand’s transportation network, also experienced delays. A consortium led by the Charoen Pokphand Group requested contract revisions from the government, citing unforeseen economic pressures from the pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine war.
The EEC Office is now actively working with UTA to jumpstart the project. Chula Sukmanop, Secretary-General of the EEC Office, emphasized the urgency, stating, «We think UTA should start its work without waiting for the high-speed rail system development.» This strategic shift decouples the two projects, allowing airport construction to proceed independently.
To expedite progress, UTA is reportedly considering a phased approach, potentially reducing the initial passenger terminal capacity. While the original plan envisioned accommodating 10–12 million passengers annually, the revised plan may target a more modest 5–6 million. Mr. Sukmanop confirmed this adjustment does not breach the existing contract with the EEC Office and allows for future expansion as passenger numbers increase. UTA can also proactively incorporate provisions for eventual high-speed rail integration.
The U-Tapao airport and Eastern Aviation City project represents a significant investment of approximately 290 billion baht (approximately US$8.5 billion) and encompasses 6,500 rai (approximately 2,570 acres) of land. The development will be a multifaceted aviation and logistics hub, including a third passenger terminal, aircraft maintenance facilities, a dedicated cargo village, and a commercial gateway. These features are expected to bolster both the industrial and tourism sectors, driving economic growth within the EEC.
Underscoring the importance of foreign investment in achieving the EEC’s goals, Mr. Sukmanop recently signed a memorandum of understanding with Giorgio Gamba, Chief Executive and Head of Banking at HSBC Thailand. This partnership aims to attract international capital and expertise to the region, solidifying its position as Thailand’s premier high-tech industrial zone. The renewed focus on the U-Tapao project signifies a significant step forward for the EEC and highlights the Thai government’s commitment to economic development and enhanced regional connectivity. While challenges remain, the project’s revival offers a beacon of hope for the Eastern Economic Corridor’s future.
