Airports of Thailand Plc (AoT) has reported a remarkable turnaround in its financial performance, recording a net profit of 8.79 billion baht in fiscal 2023. This is a significant improvement compared to the 11.09 billion baht net loss in the previous fiscal year, reflecting the steady recovery of the aviation and tourism sectors. The CEO of AoT, Kirati Kitmanawat, announced that all six airports operated by the company, including Suvarnabhumi and Phuket airports, showed improved performance during the just-concluded fiscal year.
The positive trend in passenger numbers and flight operations contributed to AoT’s success. In fiscal 2023, the six airports served 639,891 flights, marking a 62.22% increase compared to the previous year. Moreover, passenger traffic saw a substantial surge of 114.31%, with a total of 100.06 million passengers utilizing the airports.
“While the number of passengers in 2023 reached 100 million, it is important to note that pre-Covid figures stood at 120 million in 2019,” stated Kirati Kitmanawat. However, he expressed optimism, projecting passenger numbers to approach pre-pandemic levels in 2024.
The recovery in tourism can be attributed in part to the government’s visa-free scheme during the high season, which has attracted a higher volume of visitors. Notably, daily arrivals from China increased from 13,000 to 16,000, while Kazakh, Indian, and Taiwanese visitor numbers also saw significant growth.
Looking ahead, AoT aims to support the continued growth of tourism by expanding its airport infrastructure. A major development plan includes the opening of a third runway at Suvarnabhumi airport next year, increasing its hourly flight capacity from 68 to 94 flights. Additionally, AoT has outlined a comprehensive investment plan of 96 billion baht for airport development between 2024 and 2029.
The future looks promising for Airports of Thailand, as fiscal 2023 demonstrates a strong recovery and a positive outlook for the country’s aviation and tourism industries. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, AoT remains committed to enhancing its facilities and services to meet the growing demand of travelers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Which airports are operated by Airports of Thailand Plc?
AoT operates six airports: Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Phuket, and Hat Yai airports.
2. How did fiscal 2023 perform for AoT?
In fiscal 2023, AoT recorded a net profit of 8.79 billion baht, a significant improvement compared to the 11.09 billion baht net loss in the previous fiscal year.
3. How did passenger numbers and flights change in fiscal 2023?
The six airports served 639,891 flights, a 62.22% increase compared to the previous year. Passenger traffic experienced a significant surge of 114.31%, with a total of 100.06 million passengers.
4. Will passenger numbers in 2024 approach pre-Covid levels?
The CEO of AoT expressed optimism, projecting passenger numbers to be close to pre-Covid levels in 2024.
5. What factors contributed to the recovery in tourism?
The government’s visa-free scheme during the high season played a role in attracting a higher number of visitors, including increased arrivals from China, Kazakhstan, India, and Taiwan.
6. What infrastructure expansions are planned by AoT?
AoT plans to open a third runway at Suvarnabhumi airport next year, increasing its hourly flight capacity. Additionally, the company has a comprehensive investment plan of 96 billion baht for airport development from 2024 to 2029.