Phuket Airport Terminals: Complete Guide to International & Domestic Terminals
Phuket International Airport (HKT) is the third-busiest airport in Thailand and the main gateway to the Andaman coast. The airport has two main passenger terminals — the International Terminal and the Domestic Terminal — plus a dedicated terminal for private jets and chartered flights. Understanding the layout before you arrive will save time and help you navigate smoothly.
| Terminal | Purpose | Airlines & Destinations |
|---|---|---|
| International Terminal | All international flights | Emirates, Qatar Airways, Singapore Airlines, Thai Airways, AirAsia (international), VietJet, Scoot, and others |
| Domestic Terminal | All domestic flights within Thailand | Thai Airways, Bangkok Airways, Thai VietJet, Nok Air, Thai Lion Air, AirAsia (domestic) |
| X-Terminal (Private Jet Terminal) | Private jets, charters, VIP flights | Private operators and charter companies |
The two main terminals are located in separate buildings but are connected by a covered walkway that takes approximately 5–7 minutes to walk. Free shuttle buses are also available for passengers with reduced mobility or heavy luggage.
International Terminal (Terminal 1)
The International Terminal handles all flights arriving from or departing to destinations outside Thailand. It was expanded and modernized in 2016 to accommodate Phuket’s growing passenger numbers.
Key features of the International Terminal:
- Arrivals Hall – located on the ground floor with immigration counters, baggage claim carousels, customs, and currency exchange booths.
- Departures Hall – located on the upper floor with check-in counters, security screening, duty-free shopping, and departure gates.
- Facilities – restaurants, cafés, souvenir shops, lounges, prayer rooms, and free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal.
- Transportation – taxis, airport buses, and car rental desks are available directly outside the arrivals hall.
Domestic Terminal (Terminal 2)
The Domestic Terminal serves all flights within Thailand, including popular routes to Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang), Chiang Mai, Koh Samui, Krabi, and Udon Thani.
Key features of the Domestic Terminal:
- Arrivals – baggage claim and ground transportation on the ground floor.
- Departures – check-in counters, security, and boarding gates on the upper floor.
- Facilities – convenience stores, local food outlets, coffee shops, ATMs, and mobile phone kiosks.
- Faster processing – domestic passengers typically clear security and reach their gates quicker than international travelers.
X-Terminal (Private Jet Terminal)
The X-Terminal is a separate facility dedicated to private jets, chartered flights, and VIP passengers. It offers premium services including fast-track immigration, private lounges, and limousine transfers directly to the aircraft. This terminal is used by high-end travelers, corporate clients, and celebrities seeking privacy and convenience.
How to Move Between Terminals
Passengers connecting from an international flight to a domestic flight (or vice versa) must pass through Thai immigration and customs before transferring. The two terminals are within walking distance:
- Walking time: 5–7 minutes via covered walkway
- Free shuttle bus: available every 10–15 minutes
- Signage: clear signs in Thai, English, and Chinese
If you have a connecting flight, allow at least 90 minutes for the transfer, especially during peak hours (11:00 AM – 3:00 PM) when the airport experiences heavy traffic.
What Arriving Passengers Need to Know
- Visa on Arrival is available for many nationalities at the International Terminal.
- Baggage claim is located on the ground floor of both terminals.
- SIM cards and pocket Wi-Fi can be purchased at kiosks in the arrivals halls.
- Currency exchange booths are available in both terminals, though rates at the airport are generally less favorable than in town.
What Departing Passengers Need to Know
- Check-in counters open 3 hours before international flights and 2 hours before domestic flights.
- Security can be busy in the early morning and late evening.
- Duty-free shops are located after immigration in the International Terminal.
- Boarding gates close 15–20 minutes before departure — plan accordingly.
Facilities Across Both Terminals
- Free Wi-Fi (connect to “AOTWiFi”)
- Prayer rooms (Muslim and Buddhist)
- Medical center (International Terminal)
- Baby care rooms
- ATMs and money exchange
- Luggage storage and wrapping services
- Airport lounges (Coral Executive Lounge, Thai Airways Royal Orchid Lounge, and others)
Frequently Asked Questions
How many terminals does Phuket Airport have?
Phuket Airport has two main terminals — International and Domestic — plus the X-Terminal for private jets. The two main terminals are connected by a walkway.
How far is the Domestic Terminal from the International Terminal?
The walking distance is approximately 300–400 meters, taking about 5–7 minutes. A free shuttle bus also runs between terminals.
Can I walk between terminals without leaving the secure area?
No. Passengers must exit the secure area, pass through immigration if arriving internationally, and re-enter security at the other terminal.
Which terminal does AirAsia use at Phuket Airport?
AirAsia operates both international and domestic flights. Domestic AirAsia flights use the Domestic Terminal, while AirAsia international flights depart from the International Terminal.
Is Phuket Airport open 24 hours?
Yes, Phuket Airport operates 24 hours a day. However, most shops and restaurants close between 11:00 PM and 5:00 AM.