About Surat Thani International Airport

Surat Thani International Airport (URT) is the main air gateway to Surat Thani province on Thailand's Gulf coast. Many travellers pass through it on their way to the islands of Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao, while others head inland to the forests of Khao Sok. The airport opened in 1981. It is run by Thailand's Department of Airports on land owned by the Royal Thai Air Force, so civil and military flights share the same runway.

Where Surat Thani Airport Is and How Far It Is from Town

The airport sits in Phunphin district, roughly 21 km west of central Surat Thani. By road the trip into town usually takes around 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic. Phunphin railway station, the stop for Surat Thani on the southern line, is also in the same district, which makes it easy to combine a flight with a train journey.

Terminal and Facilities at Surat Thani Airport

Passengers use a single terminal building laid out over two floors, with arrivals and departures kept in separate halls. It is compact and easy to navigate. Inside you will find:

• Free Wi-Fi in the terminal
• ATMs and currency exchange
• Cafes, food outlets and a small number of shops
• Car rental counters in the arrivals area
• Short-term parking close to the building

Airlines and Routes from Surat Thani

Flights from URT are mainly domestic. Bangkok is the main link, with services to both Don Mueang and Suvarnabhumi. Carriers at the airport include Thai AirAsia, Nok Air and Thai Lion Air, and there are also flights to other Thai cities such as Chiang Mai. Schedules change through the year, so check the current timetable before you plan a connection.

Getting from Surat Thani Airport to the City and the Islands

Ground transport is well set up for island travellers. Operators sell combined bus-and-ferry tickets from the arrivals hall, with coaches timed to meet flights and take passengers to the piers for boats to Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao. Allow several hours for the full journey to the islands.

• Minivan or shuttle: shared vans run into Surat Thani town.
• Taxi: available outside arrivals for direct trips to the city or Phunphin station.
• Car hire: a good choice if you plan to drive to Khao Sok or along the coast.

Places to Visit near Surat Thani

Khao Sok National Park, with its limestone peaks and Cheow Lan Lake, is about a 90-minute drive from the airport. In town, the riverside night market is a popular evening stop. Offshore, the Gulf islands offer beaches, diving and snorkelling.

Travel Tips for Surat Thani Airport

If you are heading to an island, book a flight that lands early enough to catch a ferry the same day, as the last boats leave in the late afternoon or early evening. Keep your bus-and-ferry ticket handy, since you may need to show it at each stage of the trip.

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