The Department of Airports (DOA) has held a soft opening of the new passenger terminal at Buri Ram airport, marking a major upgrade to regional transport infrastructure.
The trial service processed passengers from four Thai AirAsia flights on the Don Mueang–Buri Ram route to test systems and readiness before the MotoGP 2026 Grand Prix of Thailand later this month.
DOA director-general Danai Ruangsorn said the facility is designed for both domestic and international flights, and can take up to 1,000 passengers per hour, or 2.8 million annually.
The expansion aims to transform Buri Ram into a hub for sport tourism and boost the local economy.
The terminal spans 25,500 square metres, strengthening connectivity across the lower Northeast and linking to the East–West Economic Corridor. The facility is expected to be vital during MotoGP 2026 from Feb 27 to March 1, when the province hosts the season-opening race.
Between Feb 18 and March 2, more than 120 flights are expected to carry over 20,000 passengers.
Source: Bangkok Post