The government is accelerating the upgrade of Khon Kaen Airport to international standards by installing the ILS system after more than 10 years of delay, enhancing flight safety and supporting economic and tourism growth in the Isan region.
On 6 June 2026 GMT+7, Ms. Lalida Pertwiwatana, Deputy Spokesperson of the Office of the Prime Minister, stated that the government, led by Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul, is continuously developing transport and aviation infrastructure to boost safety, increase travel capacity, and promote regional economic and tourism growth.
Deputy Minister of Transport Patrapong Pataraprasit visited Khon Kaen Airport to monitor progress and held discussions with the Department of Airports, Aeronautical Radio of Thailand Limited, local agencies, and the private sector to expedite the development of Khon Kaen Airport as a key gateway for northeastern Thailand.
The Deputy Spokesperson explained that a priority for the Deputy Minister of Transport is the installation of the ILS/DME (Instrument Landing System/Distance Measuring Equipment), a crucial system that enables aircraft to take off and land more accurately and safely, especially during fog, heavy rain, or low visibility, reducing flight delays and holding patterns before landing.
“This project has been delayed for more than 10 years, causing Khon Kaen province and the country to lose competitive opportunities in aviation and regional economic development. The government is therefore pushing for tangible progress swiftly.”
Mr. Patrapong has coordinated with the Army to request the use of the sports development center area at the 8th Infantry Regiment, Siharat Dechochai Camp, which is suitable for installing the system. He also instructed the Department of Airports and Aeronautical Radio of Thailand Limited to closely expedite all steps to advance the project as quickly as possible.
The Deputy Spokesperson added that beyond improving aviation safety standards, the Ministry of Transport is discussing ways to enhance Khon Kaen Airport's capacity in multiple dimensions, including accommodating increasing passenger numbers, preparing for international flight routes, seamless public transport connections, and partnerships with airlines and businesses to increase direct flights to major cities and key tourist destinations.
At the same time, the ministry has invited the private sector to join the “Fly and Drive” project, implemented jointly with the Tourism Authority of Thailand, to stimulate travel by linking air travel with ground transportation and fostering economic activities in the region.
Currently, Khon Kaen Airport can handle up to approximately 5 million passengers annually and efficiently accommodate medium and large aircraft. Infrastructure development projects are underway, including renovating the passenger terminal to reflect local identity and culture, expected to be completed within 2026 GMT+7.
“The government aims to elevate regional airports to international standards to enhance safety, build confidence among airlines and passengers, and support trade, investment, and tourism in Khon Kaen province and northeastern Thailand for sustainable long-term growth.”