Suvarnabhumi Airport has soared to new heights, officially ranking as the world’s No. 1 airport for airline connectivity, according to a comprehensive 2025 survey by Brilliant Maps and data from FlightConnections. The Bangkok-based aviation hub now hosts a record 113 airlines, outpacing Paris Charles de Gaulle (105) and Dubai International (97) to cement Thailand’s growing prominence in global air travel.

This milestone underscores Suvarnabhumi’s rapid evolution from a regional gateway to a major international player. With 484 daily flights to 151 destinations and over 51 million annual passengers, it now leads all airports globally in the number of airlines offering scheduled service.

Big ambitions, bigger plans for the BKK airport

Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Suriya Juangroongruangkit described the ranking as a tangible success aligned with national policy to continuously develop the nation’s airports. The aim is to enhance the travel experience by making it more convenient, safe, and modern.

Indeed, a multi-pronged expansion is underway to further position Suvarnabhumi as a true global hub capable of handling 120 million passengers annually. Key projects include the eastern extension of Terminal 1, the construction of a new Terminal 2 to the south, and a fourth runway — all part of a long-term vision to lift the airport into the world’s top 20 within five years. Currently, Suvarnabhumi ranks 39th in SKYTRAX Awards for World’s Best Airports, leaping forward 19 places from 58th the previous year.

The Airports of Thailand (AOT) has also launched “Cargo Network 2025,” a strategic plan to turn Suvarnabhumi into ASEAN’s leading air logistics hub. This includes building a new 58,000-square-meter Mixed-Use Logistics Centre and expanding partnerships with international logistics firms.

Suvarnabhumi upgrades with traveler-centric innovations

Alongside infrastructure upgrades, Suvarnabhumi is improving passenger experience through streamlined immigration processes. A recent initiative introduced dedicated lanes for foreign students and their families during the July–September low season, reducing wait times from 40 minutes to just 15. Priority lanes for elderly travelers, pregnant women, and those with disabilities have also been added.

Even amid record traffic, Thai immigration officers continue carrying out robust security checks, balancing efficiency with safety. Over 10,000 people have been denied entry this year alone amid intensive screening of high-risk foreign nationals and gray-listed individuals.

From record-setting airline service to logistics innovation and traveler-focused reforms, Suvarnabhumi’s skyward trajectory reflects Thailand’s broader ambition to become a true hub of connectivity and growth in an increasingly globalized world.

Source: