| IATA Code | BTZ |
| ICAO Code | VTSY |
| City | Betong |
| Distance to Centre | 13 km |
| Status | International (primarily domestic and charter flights) |
| Passengers per Year | Design capacity up to 300,000 (actual traffic varies) |
| Schedule | Seasonal / Charter flights |
For your convenience, we have compiled the main contact information for Betong International Airport (BTZ). Save this to keep it handy during your journey.
Getting to Betong International Airport (BTZ) from the city centre of Betong is quite simple, as the airport is located just a few kilometres away. Depending on your budget and preferences, you can choose from several convenient methods.
Taxi and Private Transfer
The fastest and most comfortable way to reach the airport is by taxi. The trip from the city centre will take approximately 15–20 minutes. You can book a car via mobile apps popular in Thailand, such as Grab, or arrange a ride with local taxi drivers. Many hotels also offer transfer services for their guests, which can be particularly convenient if you are travelling with a lot of luggage. The estimated cost of a taxi ride is 300–500 Thai Baht (THB).
Public Transport
Public transport options to the airport are limited. You can try using local minibuses known as "songthaews". This is the most budget-friendly method, but they do not have a fixed schedule or route to the terminal. If you decide to choose a songthaew, allocate extra time for the journey and be prepared to negotiate the route with the driver. There are currently no direct bus, train, or metro lines to the airport.
Car Rental
For those who prefer maximum freedom of movement, car rental is an excellent solution. Several rental companies operate in Betong, where you can hire a car and drive to the airport yourself. This option is ideal if you plan to explore the picturesque surroundings of the region. Before renting, be sure to check if the company offers the option to drop off the vehicle directly at the airport.
Airport Parking
If you are arriving at the airport in your own or a rented vehicle, parking is at your service. As with most regional airports, there are spaces for short-term and long-term parking at reasonable rates. It is a convenient and safe way to leave your car for the duration of your trip.
Betong International Airport (BTZ) in Betong is a modern and compact facility designed for maximum passenger convenience. Its key feature is the presence of a single passenger terminal that handles all flights without exception. This significantly simplifies navigation and makes the travel process quick and comfortable.
The terminal layout is extremely simple and intuitive. Departure and arrival zones are located in the same building but are clearly separated to organise passenger flows. Thanks to the airport's small size, you won't have to spend much time moving around. All key points—check-in counters, security screening, boarding gates, and baggage claim belts—are within walking distance of each other. Signs are in Thai and English, making orientation easy.
Since there is only one terminal, you do not need to worry about transferring between buildings or using shuttles. All procedures take place in one location. Checking in and passing security control at Betong airport usually takes significantly less time than in major international hubs, thanks to the lower passenger volume. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 1.5-2 hours before departure to complete all formalities calmly.
For navigation, simply follow the signs. Getting lost here is practically impossible. The compactness of the terminal is its main advantage, allowing travellers to avoid the stress and hustle often associated with large airports, and to begin their acquaintance with the south of Thailand in a calm and friendly atmosphere.
The history of Betong International Airport (BTZ) is the story of a modern project designed to boost the development of the southern regions of Thailand. The airport is one of the newest in the country. Its construction began in 2016 and was completed in 2019. The main goal of creating the air harbour was to improve transport accessibility for Yala province and the city of Betong, as well as to stimulate tourism and the local economy.
The official opening of the airport was scheduled for 2020, but due to the global COVID-19 pandemic, it had to be postponed. The ceremonial launch took place later, and the first commercial flight landed in Betong on 14 March 2022. This event was of national significance; the Prime Minister of Thailand attended the opening ceremony, highlighting the airport's importance to national infrastructure.
The initial phase of the airport's operation proved challenging. After a few flights, regular service was temporarily suspended due to insufficient load. This period became an important part of the airport's short history, demonstrating the challenges new regional hubs face in establishing stable passenger traffic. Nevertheless, the airport continued to handle charter and private flights, confirming its readiness for operation.
From a technical perspective, Betong Airport is a modern complex designed to serve regional transport. It is equipped with a runway 1,800 metres long, capable of accommodating turboprop aircraft such as the ATR 72. The passenger terminal is designed to handle up to 300 passengers per hour, and its annual capacity is about one million people, leaving significant potential for future growth.
One interesting fact lies in its strategic location. The airport is situated just a few kilometres from the Malaysian border, making it a convenient gateway for tourists from the neighbouring country. Despite the difficulties at the start, Betong Airport remains a symbol of development and hope for the prosperity of a unique and picturesque corner of Thailand, whose aviation history is just beginning.
Betong International Airport (BTZ), despite its compact dimensions, provides passengers with all essential services for a comfortable journey. Within the terminal building, you will find several small cafes and snack bars where you can have a bite before your flight, as well as shops selling souvenirs and necessities.
A comfortable general waiting hall is equipped for flights. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, allowing passengers to stay connected. Charging stations for mobile phones and other gadgets are also provided. Information regarding the availability of VIP lounges is best checked with your airline representatives.
ATMs for cash withdrawals are installed in the airport. Currency exchange points may have limited operating hours, so it is recommended to exchange money in advance. In case of need, a medical unit operates in the terminal to provide first aid.
The airport is fully adapted for passengers with reduced mobility: ramps and specially equipped washrooms are available. For travellers with small children, there is a Mother and Child Room where you can take care of your baby in a quiet environment.
There are no hotels on the airport grounds, but a wide range of accommodation options is available in the city of Betong, located nearby. Specialised business services, such as conference rooms, are not provided at the airport, but they can be found in business centres and hotels in the city.
Betong International Airport (BTZ) is a small and modern regional airport, so the choice of dining establishments corresponds to its compact size. The options are focused on ensuring passengers can have a comfortable snack while waiting for their flight.
In the main public area of the terminal (before security control), there are several small cafes and kiosks. Here you can buy coffee, tea, juices, water, as well as sandwiches, pastries, and packaged snacks. This is an ideal option for those who need a quick refreshment before check-in. Prices here are moderate for an airport: a light snack including a drink and food will cost approximately 150–250 Baht.
Although there are no full-service restaurants with extensive menus at the airport, local cafes offer glimpses of southern Thailand's culinary traditions. These may include simple rice or noodle dishes. Given the region's characteristics, the majority of the food products offered are Halal. However, finding specialised vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options might be difficult, so passengers with strict dietary requirements are advised to bring food with them.
Opening hours of establishments are usually tied to the flight schedule—they open a few hours before the first flight and close after the departure of the last one. It is worth noting that after passing security screening into the departure zone, the selection may be even more limited or non-existent. Therefore, if you are counting on a full lunch or dinner, the best solution would be to eat at one of the numerous establishments in the city of Betong before arriving at the airport.
To ensure your journey through Betong International Airport in Betong goes smoothly, use these helpful tips. Planning ahead will help avoid stress and make the start of your adventure in Thailand as comfortable as possible.
Planning the Trip to the Airport: To avoid unnecessary rushing, plan your route to the airport in advance. Consider traffic conditions, especially during peak hours, and the time needed for the journey. It is recommended to leave with extra time to reach the terminal calmly without worrying about potential delays on the road.
Check-in and Security: To save time, use online check-in if your airline provides this option. Have your passport and boarding pass ready at the airport. When passing through security, be prepared to remove laptops and other large gadgets from your hand luggage, as well as your plastic bag with liquids.
Choosing a Seat on the Plane: Want to enjoy the views during take-off and landing? Choose a window seat. If the ability to stand up freely and stretch your legs is more important to you, your choice is an aisle seat. Booking your ticket in advance gives you a better chance of securing your desired seat.
Hand Luggage Rules: Standard international rules apply here. You can take liquids in containers up to 100 ml into the cabin, packed in a transparent bag. Sharp objects (scissors, knives), flammable substances, and weapons are prohibited. Always keep valuables, documents, medicines, and gadgets with you in your hand luggage.
Connecting Passengers: If you have a connecting flight, check in advance whether you need to collect and re-check your luggage. In the transit area, follow signs for "Connecting Flights" or "Transfers" to quickly find the boarding gate for your next flight.
Customs Control: Upon arriving on an international flight, you will need to pass through customs. If you have no goods to declare, proceed confidently through the "Green Channel". If you are carrying items that need to be declared (for example, goods exceeding the allowance), head to the "Red Channel". Familiarise yourself with Thailand's customs regulations in advance.
How to Save Time and Money: Check in online and travel light with only hand luggage to avoid waiting for baggage. Bring an empty water bottle to fill up after passing security control—this will save money on drinks. Compare prices for taxis and other modes of transport from the airport beforehand.
What to Do in Case of Flight Delay: In the event of a flight delay or cancellation, contact your airline representative immediately. They will provide current information and explain your rights (provision of drinks, meals, or a hotel depending on the length of the delay). Stay calm and keep your gadgets charged.
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