Mae Sot Airport

Mae Sot Airport (Mae Sot Airport) is more than just an air gateway to the city of the same name in western Thailand; it is a strategically important transport hub on the border with Myanmar. This compact yet modern airport plays a key role in the development of regional tourism and business connections. Following the opening of a new terminal in 2019, its capacity has increased significantly, making travel to this colourful corner of Thailand even more comfortable. The airport primarily serves domestic flights, connecting Mae Sot with the country's capital.

One of the main features of Mae Sot Airport is its compactness and efficiency. There is none of the hustle and bustle of large international hubs here, allowing passengers to complete all pre-flight formalities quickly. Despite its size, the airport is equipped with everything necessary for a comfortable wait for your flight. The new passenger terminal, opened in 2019, is designed to handle up to 1.7 million passengers per year, indicating the great potential of this destination. Its proximity to the city — just a few kilometres to the centre — makes it particularly convenient for tourists, who can reach their hotel in a matter of minutes.

Below you will find useful contact details for Mae Sot Airport (MAQ), which may be helpful when planning your trip or in case of any inquiries.

• Official Website: At the time of the last update, the airport is managed by the Department of Airports of Thailand. Current information can be found on their portal in the section dedicated to Mae Sot Airport: maesot.airports.go.th.
• Information Desk Phone: +66 55 563 628
• Address: Tha Sai Luat, Mae Sot District, Tak 63110, Thailand.
• Email: dca_msq@airports.go.th
• Social Media: The airport does not have separate official pages on popular social networks. It is recommended to follow news on the official website.
• Lost & Found Information: For all matters related to lost or damaged luggage, please contact your airline's representative at the airport directly. Airport staff do not process such requests.
• Passenger Support Service: For general information and assistance, you may use the main airport information desk phone number.

Getting to Mae Sot Airport (MAQ) from the city centre of Mae Sot is quite simple, as it is located just a few kilometres away. The journey usually takes no more than 10-15 minutes. The main modes of transport are local transport and taxis, as there is no extensive city bus network in the town.

Taxis, Tuk-tuks, and Transfers

The most convenient and popular way to get to the airport is to use a taxi or a traditional Thai tuk-tuk. You can easily find them on the city streets or ask your hotel to book a car for you. The cost of the trip is usually negotiable, so always confirm the price before departing. As a guide, the trip will cost approximately 100–200 Thai Baht. Some hotels also offer transfer services for their guests.

Public Transport and Motorcycle Taxis

The role of public transport in Mae Sot is fulfilled by songthaews — covered pickup trucks with two benches for passengers. This is the most budget-friendly option, but they do not have a fixed route to the airport. You will likely have to hire the entire songthaew (charter), which will cost a similar amount to a taxi. Another quick and cheap option for travellers without large luggage is a motorcycle taxi (mototaxi). A ride on one will cost approximately 60–80 Baht.

Car Rental and Parking

If you are travelling around Thailand in a rental car, driving to the airport will be effortless. The roads are well-signposted, and a navigation system will easily plan the route. There is a small parking lot located directly in front of the Mae Sot Airport terminal. Given the size of the airport and the low traffic, finding a free space is usually not a problem. Parking may be free or cost a nominal fee.

Mae Sot Airport (MAQ) is a small but modern regional airport serving the city of Mae Sot and the province of the same name in Thailand. Its structure is extremely simple and convenient for passengers, as it consists of one compact terminal that handles all domestic flights.

The airport layout is intuitive. The departure and arrival zones are combined within the single terminal building. Thanks to its small size, navigation presents no difficulty — all key points, from check-in counters to boarding gates, are within a few minutes' walk of each other. There are no separate walkways between terminals as they are unnecessary, making movement through the airport maximally quick.

The departure zone is located in the main part of the terminal. Here you will find airline check-in counters and the security screening point. After passing through control, passengers enter a small but comfortable waiting hall with sufficient seating. The arrival zone is even more concise: it includes a baggage claim belt and an exit to the city located immediately behind it. It is practically impossible to get lost here.

Passing all pre-flight formalities at Mae Sot Airport usually takes a minimum amount of time. Flight check-in and security screening are rarely accompanied by long queues. Typically, all procedures take no more than 20-30 minutes. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately 1-1.5 hours before departure to check in luggage and pass control without rushing.

The main recommendation for navigation is simply to follow the signs, which are duplicated in English. The airport is designed for maximum convenience and speed, so even inexperienced travellers will be able to orient themselves easily. If questions arise, polite staff are always ready to assist.

Mae Sot Airport (MAQ) has a relatively short but dynamic history, closely linked to the economic development of this border region of Thailand. The air harbour was opened in 1982 as a small domestic airfield. Its primary task was to ensure transport accessibility for the city of Mae Sot and the surrounding districts of Tak province, which borders Myanmar.

During the first decades of its existence, the airport served predominantly small aircraft, operating local flights. However, its strategic location made it a key point for business travel and logistics. Demand for higher quality air connectivity gradually grew, leading to the necessity for radical modernisation.

A key stage in the airport's history was the large-scale reconstruction that began in 2014 and was completed in 2019. This ambitious project included the construction of a completely new, modern passenger terminal capable of serving up to 1.7 million passengers per year. Additionally, the runway was extended from 1,500 to 2,100 metres, allowing it to accommodate larger aircraft such as the Airbus A320 and Boeing 737.

This modernisation transformed a modest provincial airfield into a modern airport ready for international status. Today, Mae Sot Airport plays an important role in the development of the Tak Special Economic Zone and is considered a strategic "gateway to Myanmar". Its history is a vivid example of how infrastructure investments can stimulate economic growth and tourism in a region.

The Mae Sot Airport (MAQ) is a small regional airport serving predominantly domestic flights within Thailand. The infrastructure here is compact and functional, offering passengers a basic set of services for a comfortable wait before departure. In the terminal, you will find several small cafes and snack bars where you can have a bite to eat or drink coffee. There are also a couple of shops offering souvenirs, travel essentials, and local products.

For the convenience of passengers, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal. Although the number of power outlets for charging devices may be limited, the main waiting areas are usually equipped with them. It is recommended to carry a portable charger just in case. Specialised high-comfort lounges or VIP halls are absent at the airport, which is typical for air terminals of this size.

Regarding financial services, ATMs are available at the airport for withdrawing cash. Currency exchange counters may not be present, so it is better to arrange money exchange in the city beforehand. A medical point is available in the terminal for first aid. Passengers with reduced mobility can count on standard amenities, including ramps and specially equipped toilets, and can request assistance from airline staff at check-in. Families with small children can use the mother and child room.

There are no hotels directly on the territory of Mae Sot Airport. However, just a few minutes' drive away, in the city of Mae Sot itself, there are many accommodation options to suit any taste and budget. Specialised business centres or conference rooms are not provided in the terminal building. For business meetings, it is better to use the facilities of hotels in the city.

Mae Sot Airport (MAQ) is a compact regional terminal, so the choice of dining establishments is appropriate to its size. Options for snacks and full meals are concentrated mainly in the public zone of the main terminal, accessible before passing security control.

Several small cafes and snack bars operate within the airport building. Here, passengers can order basic Thai dishes that are excellent for a pre-flight lunch. Typically, the menu includes noodle soup (kway teow), fried rice (khao pad) with chicken or vegetables, as well as simple snacks. It is also a good place to have coffee, tea, or soft drinks.

For those in a hurry, the best choice would be packaged sandwiches, pastries, or snacks sold in the same cafes. If time permits, you can order a hot dish — it will be prepared quite quickly. Prices at Mae Sot Airport are quite moderate, especially in comparison with the major international hubs of Thailand.

Regarding specific dietary requirements, finding certified Halal, vegan, or gluten-free dishes here may be challenging. However, you can ask for a vegetarian version of fried rice or noodles prepared without meat. All establishments operate according to the flight schedule, opening a few hours before the first departure and closing after the last aircraft departs. After passing security control (in the sterile area), the choice is usually limited to a small kiosk with beverages and snacks.

Travelling through Mae Sot Airport is usually calm and hassle-free, as it is a small regional air hub. To ensure your trip begins and ends smoothly, take advantage of these tips.

Arrival Time and Check-in. For domestic flights within Thailand, it is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately 1.5–2 hours before departure. Check-in and screening procedures here are quite fast, but it is better to have a time buffer. To speed up the process, check in online and have your passport and boarding pass ready.

Seat Selection and Hand Luggage. If you want to enjoy views of the picturesque surroundings of Mae Sot from above, choose a window seat. An aisle seat is suitable for those who value extra legroom and want to be among the first to disembark. Remember standard restrictions for hand luggage: liquids in containers no larger than 100 ml and no sharp objects. Be sure to check the weight and dimension allowances with your airline.

Connecting Passengers. Mae Sot Airport is rarely used as a transit hub. If you have a planned connection (most often in Bangkok), allow sufficient time for it, especially if a change of airport is involved. Customs control for domestic flights is usually absent, as you pass it at the first airport of arrival in Thailand.

Saving Money and Unforeseen Situations. To save money, book flight tickets in advance and travel light to avoid extra baggage fees. In case of flight delays, contact your airline representatives for information. Since the choice of cafes and shops at the airport is limited, it is useful to have a book, a charged power bank, and a light snack with you in case of a wait.