Bangkok: The Ministry of Transport has inaugurated a new route that links Udon Thani, Suvarnabhumi Airport, and Tokyo with a single check-in service to the final destination. This initiative is set to transform Udon Thani into a regional aviation hub, stimulating economic growth and enhancing tourism prospects.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Lalida Periswiwatana, Deputy Spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, announced that under the leadership of Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, the government is advancing Thailand's status as a world-class aviation hub. The newly opened route includes the debut of Thai Vietjet Air's Sky ConX (Check-Thru Service), enabling passengers to complete check-in procedures only once at the departure airport. This service simplifies international travel and positions Udon Thani Airport as a key aviation hub for the Northeast region and the Greater Mekong Subregion, contributing to the nation's economy, trade, investment, and tourism.
The Deputy Spokesperson also noted that Deputy Minister of Transport, Mr. Phatarapong Phatprasit, led the "Opening the Skies of Udon Thani: Connecting International Travel" event and received the inaugural Thai Vietjet Air flight, VZ200, on the Udon Thani - Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi) - Tokyo (Narita) route. Mr. Phatprasit also convened a meeting to discuss Udon Thani Airport's upgrade to an international hub and reviewed preparations for the 2026 World Horticultural Expo in Udon Thani.
Mr. Patarapong emphasized that the Sky ConX launch marks a significant advancement in Thailand's air travel. The one-time check-in and baggage collection service enhances travel convenience across Asia, boosts transportation capabilities, and fosters Udon Thani's development as a major aviation hub in alignment with the government's aviation goals.
The Deputy Minister of Transport explained that efforts are underway to designate Udon Thani Airport as an "International Airport," with the application currently under review by the Department of Airports, pending submission to the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand. The objective is to commence full international flight operations soon, upgrading safety, security, and facilities to international standards.
At present, Udon Thani Airport accommodates over 3.4 million passengers annually with more than 30 domestic flights daily. By 2026, Thai Vietjet Air plans to introduce direct flights on the Yiwu-Udon Thani and Wuxi-Udon Thani routes, improving connectivity between Thailand's Northeast and China, fostering tourism, trade, and investment. The newly opened route via Sky ConX will bolster Udon Thani Airport's role as a regional hub with seamless international connectivity.
In preparation for the International Horticultural Expo in Udon Thani, set from November 1, 2026, to March 14, 2027, the Ministry of Transport has devised a One Transport plan. Shuttle bus services will link Udon Thani Airport to the expo venue, offering 40 trips per day across three main routes: Big C Udon Thani 2 (Nadi), Lotus Udon Thani 2 (Nadi), and Ruamjai Market. This initiative aims to facilitate travel for residents and tourists, accommodating the anticipated rise in travelers.