Hat Yai International Airport

Hat Yai International Airport is not merely a transport hub, but a true aerial gateway to the colourful south of Thailand and a key point for travellers heading towards the border with Malaysia. This compact yet bustling aviation hub in Songkhla province is renowned for its friendly atmosphere and strategic location, making it the ideal starting point for exploring the "Deep South". The airport harmoniously combines Thai hospitality with international service standards, ensuring a comfortable start to your journey towards ancient temples, bustling markets, and the tropical beauties of the region.

Features and Advantages of the Airport

Despite its relatively small size, Hat Yai Airport offers travellers a well-thought-out and convenient infrastructure. One of the main advantages is easy navigation: it is practically impossible to get lost here, and all necessary services — from check-in counters to passport control — are located within walking distance. This allows passengers to complete all formalities quickly and without unnecessary stress, which is especially valuable after long flights.

The airport is excellently integrated into the region's transport system. Travellers can easily reach the city or the border by using budget-friendly blue minivans (songthaew), official taxis, or car rental services, with counters located right in the arrival hall. For those waiting for a flight, there are rest areas, Duty Free shops, and various cafes where you can try both local Thai snacks and familiar fast food.

• Official Website: hatyai.airportthai.co.th
• Inquiry Service Phone: +66 74 227 000
• Airport Address: 99 Moo 3, Khlong La, Khlong Hoi Khong District, Songkhla 90115, Thailand
• Email: aotpr.hdy@airportthai.co.th (Public Relations Department)
• Social Media: Official Facebook Page
• Lost Luggage Information: Please contact your airline representative first. Airport baggage tracing service phone: +66 74 227 510
• Passenger Support Contacts: Information counters are located within the terminal. Inquiry phone: +66 74 227 000

Getting to Hat Yai International Airport (HDY) from the city centre is quite simple, as there are several modes of transport available to suit any budget and comfort level. The airport is located approximately 15 kilometres southwest of the city, and the journey usually takes between 20 to 30 minutes depending on traffic conditions.

Public Transport is the most economical method. The main option is the blue-coloured songthaew (shared taxi), which runs between the city and the airport. It can be found in the centre, for example, near the clock tower. The cost of the trip is very affordable, around 30-40 Baht. Shuttle minivans also depart from the centre, offering slightly more comfort for a slightly higher fee and dropping passengers right at the terminal entrance.

Taxi and Transfer are the most convenient and fastest options. A taxi ride from the centre of Hat Yai to the airport usually has a fixed cost in the region of 250-300 Baht. It is recommended to agree on the price with the driver in advance or ensure they have switched on the meter. Additionally, taxi-hailing apps like Grab are popular in Thailand, allowing you to know the cost beforehand and avoid misunderstandings. For maximum convenience, especially if travelling with family or large luggage, you can book a private transfer in advance.

Car Rental and Parking. If you plan to explore not only the city but also its surroundings, renting a car would be an excellent solution. You can hire a car both in the city and directly at the airport upon arrival. For those driving to the airport in their own or rented vehicle, there is a convenient car park on the terminal grounds where you can leave your transport during your absence.

Hat Yai International Airport (HDY) consists of one passenger terminal that serves both domestic and international flights. Thanks to its compact and logical structure, navigation through the airport is intuitive even for first-time visitors. The terminal has two main levels, clearly divided by function, which minimizes confusion and travel time through this air hub of southern Thailand.

The Departure Zone is located on the upper floor of the terminal. Here you will find airline check-in counters, customs and passport control areas for international flights, as well as the security screening point. After clearing formalities, passengers enter the secure area featuring waiting lounges, several Duty Free shops, cafes, and souvenir stalls. Given the size of the airport, the walk from the entrance to the boarding gate takes very little time.

The Arrival Zone occupies the lower floor of the building. Passengers arrive here immediately after disembarking the aircraft. This area houses baggage reclaim belts, immigration control counters for international arrivals, and the customs point. In the general arrival hall, you will find car rental offices, currency exchange counters, taxi stands, and information centres where you can get assistance and book a transfer to the city.

Processing times at Hat Yai Airport are generally short. For domestic flights, it is recommended to arrive 1.5-2 hours before departure, and for international flights — 2-3 hours prior. This time is usually sufficient for a calm check-in, baggage drop, and security clearance. During peak hours or the tourist season, small queues are possible, so it is better to have some spare time.

To navigate the terminal, simply follow the signs, which are duplicated in English. Since all zones are in one building, transitions between them are made via escalators and lifts. The compactness of the airport is its main advantage — it is hard to get lost here, and all necessary services are within walking distance.

The history of Hat Yai International Airport (HDY) began on December 16, 1972, when it was officially opened. Its construction was a response to the growing economic and tourism needs of southern Thailand, replacing the old airfield in Songkhla. Initially, the airport served primarily domestic flights, connecting the southern region with the capital and other major cities of the country.

A key moment in the airport's development was receiving international status on December 13, 1988. This event opened direct air corridors with neighbouring countries, primarily Malaysia and Singapore, transforming Hat Yai into an important gateway for foreign tourists and business travellers heading to the south of Thailand. The increased passenger flow stimulated further infrastructure development.

In the early 2000s, the airport underwent significant renovation and expansion, increasing its capacity to 2.5 million passengers per year. However, the popularity of the destination meant these figures were quickly exceeded. The airport also plays a vital social and cultural role, serving as one of the country's main departure points for Muslim pilgrims performing the Hajj to Mecca.

Today, Hat Yai Airport is not just a transport node, but a strategic facility fostering economic cooperation within the "Indonesia-Malaysia-Thailand Growth Triangle" (IMT-GT). It continues to modernize to meet growing demands and remains one of the busiest and most significant airports in the southern part of Thailand, serving millions of passengers annually.

Hat Yai International Airport (HDY) offers passengers all necessary amenities to make waiting for a flight as comfortable as possible. Whether you are flying domestically or internationally, you will find a wide range of services here meeting the needs of modern travellers.

For those wishing to have a snack or do some shopping, the terminal features various restaurants and cafes offering both local Thai cuisine and familiar international snacks. There are several shops in the airport, including souvenir stalls where you can buy gifts for loved ones, and Duty Free shops offering perfumes and other goods.

For a more comfortable wait, the airport provides VIP lounges and airline lounges, such as the Thai Airways Royal Silk Lounge. Guests in these lounges can enjoy peace and quiet, complimentary beverages, snacks, and fresh newspapers. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, and special charging stations are equipped for gadgets, allowing you to stay connected at all times.

Financial matters can be easily resolved right at the airport thanks to the presence of ATMs and several currency exchange counters, where you can exchange money upon arrival or before departure. In case of unforeseen health issues, a medical centre is available in the terminal, ready to provide first aid.

Families with children will appreciate the availability of mother and child rooms, where you can care for little ones in a quiet environment. A barrier-free environment has been created for passengers with reduced mobility: the airport is equipped with ramps, lifts, and dedicated toilets, and staff are always ready to provide necessary assistance and escort.

Although there are no hotels directly inside the terminal building, several hotels are located in the immediate vicinity of the airport, offering convenient accommodation options and transfers. For business travellers, some premium lounges may offer basic business services such as workspaces, though there are no specialized conference halls within the airport.

Hat Yai International Airport (HDY) offers passengers diverse opportunities for a snack or a full meal, with a special emphasis on the authentic cuisine of southern Thailand. Most establishments are located in the public area before security control, so if time permits, it is better to eat there.

In the landside zone (before security), which includes the arrival and check-in halls, you will find the main selection of establishments. Restaurants operate here offering full meals. This is the best place to try famous local food, such as the crispy fried chicken Gai Tod Hat Yai. Popular Thai coffee shops are also located here, where you can order not only coffee but also sandwiches, pastries, and light snacks. For budget-conscious travellers, there are convenience stores where you can buy drinks, snacks, and ready-to-eat meals at affordable prices.

In the airside zone (after passing security), the choice is more limited. Mostly, there are small cafes and kiosks here, ideal for a quick bite before departure. You can buy coffee, soft drinks, sandwiches, and light snacks. We recommend not leaving a full lunch until the last moment, as there may not be suitable options in the departure lounge.

Hat Yai Airport is excellent for passengers with specific dietary preferences. Due to the large Muslim population in the region, it is easy to find certified Halal restaurants here, especially in the public zone. Vegetarians will also find it easy to locate suitable dishes — many Thai cafes offer vegetable curries, tofu dishes, and rice. Gluten-free options are readily available among traditional rice-based dishes and rice noodles.

Prices at the airport are generally higher than in the city but remain moderate compared to other international airports. Opening hours for most cafes and restaurants are tied to the flight schedule, starting early in the morning and closing after the departure of the last evening flights. For a full and leisurely lunch, restaurants in the check-in hall are best, while for a quick snack, cafes in the departure zone or 24-hour shops in the arrival zone are suitable.

To ensure your journey through Hat Yai International Airport goes smoothly and without hassle, make use of our tips. These recommendations will help you save time, money, and peace of mind.

Airport Arrival Time. For international flights, it is recommended to arrive 2.5-3 hours before departure, and for domestic flights — 1.5-2 hours prior. This time is sufficient to check in, drop off luggage, and pass pre-flight screening without rushing, especially during the high tourist season.

Check-in and Security Control. To avoid queues at check-in counters, use the online check-in service if offered by your airline. At security control, be ready to present your passport and boarding pass, and remove all electronic devices, laptops, and liquid containers from your hand luggage.

Choosing a Seat on the Plane. If you want to enjoy the views, choose a window seat. If you value freedom of movement and the ability to stretch your legs, your choice is an aisle seat. Passengers rushing for a connection or wishing to leave the aircraft quickly should choose seats in the front part of the cabin.

Hand Luggage. Remember the general rules: liquids can be carried in containers of no more than 100 ml each, packed in a single transparent bag. Sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances are prohibited. Always take all valuables, documents, medicines, and portable batteries (power banks) with you into the cabin.

Passengers with Connections. If you have a connecting flight, check with the airline in advance whether you need to collect your luggage and check in again. When transferring from an international flight to a domestic one within Thailand, you generally need to pass passport and customs control at the first airport of arrival.

Customs Control. When arriving from another country, proceed through the "Green Channel" if you have no goods to declare. If you are carrying items exceeding duty-free limits, you must go through the "Red Channel" and declare the goods. We recommend familiarizing yourself with Thailand's customs regulations in advance.

Saving Time and Money. A pre-booked online transfer from the airport often costs less than a taxi on the spot. Prices for food and drinks at the airport are traditionally higher, so you can have a snack before arriving or take an empty water bottle with you to fill at drinking fountains after the security zone.

Flight Delays. In case of a flight delay or cancellation, contact your airline's representative counter. Depending on the duration of the wait, you may be provided with vouchers for food or drinks. To make the wait more comfortable, have a book, charged gadgets, and headphones with you.