Utapao Airport

U-Tapao Airport is not merely an air hub, but your personal "gateway" to the sunny beaches of Thailand's eastern coast, allowing you to bypass the hustle and bustle of massive Bangkok. This compact and cozy airport, like a hidden gem, gives you the feeling of a holiday from the very first minutes after landing: there are no endless queues here, and the staff welcomes guests with a signature Thai smile. Located on the territory of an active naval base, U-Tapao combines strict order with the relaxed atmosphere of a tropical resort, being just an hour's drive from the famous Walking Street and the quiet bays of Rayong.

Features and Advantages of the Airport:

The main advantage of U-Tapao is its exclusive atmosphere and speed of service. Unlike the capital's giants, the journey here from the aircraft steps to the city exit takes minimal time, which is especially valuable after a long flight. Thanks to the compact terminal, all services are within walking distance, and the risk of getting lost is reduced to zero.

The airport has a unique status as a dual-purpose facility, being the home of the First Air Wing of the Royal Thai Navy. This ensures an enhanced level of security throughout the territory. Furthermore, U-Tapao is strategically located: it serves as an ideal starting point not only for a trip to Pattaya but also for travel to the islands of Koh Samet and Koh Chang, as well as to Rayong province.

In recent years, the air harbor has been actively developing within the framework of the "Eastern Economic Corridor" project. A new modern terminal has been opened, increasing capacity, and the construction of a high-speed railway is planned, which in the future will link U-Tapao with Don Mueang and Suvarnabhumi airports into a single transport network.

• Official Website: www.utapao.com
• Inquiry Service Phone: +66 38 245 595
• Address: 70 Moo 2, Phla, Ban Chang District, Rayong 21130, Thailand
• Email: It is recommended to use the contact form on the official airport website for communication.
• Social Media: Official page on Facebook.
• Lost and Found: For questions regarding lost items, please contact +66 38 245 291 or go directly to the information counter in the terminal.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For assistance and consultations, you can contact the main inquiry service phone or staff at the information counters within the airport building.

U-Tapao Airport (UTP) is located approximately 40-45 kilometers south of the center of Pattaya, making it a convenient choice for travelers vacationing in this popular resort of Thailand. There are several ways to get from the city to the airport, and the choice depends on your budget, amount of luggage, and personal preferences. On average, the journey takes from 45 to 60 minutes.

Public Transport and Minivans. The most economical option is to use shuttle buses or minivans. Specialized companies offer group transfers that pick up passengers directly from hotels or specific collection points in the city. The cost of such a trip is usually around 250-300 THB per person. This is convenient for solo travelers, but it is worth noting that travel time may increase due to collecting other passengers.

Taxi and Private Transfer. The most comfortable and fastest way to get to the airport is to order a taxi. You can use official taxi services, call a car via the Grab app (popular in Thailand), or book a private transfer in advance. A trip from the center of Pattaya will cost approximately 800–1200 THB. It is strongly recommended to agree on a fixed price before the trip begins or ensure the driver turns on the meter.

Car Rental and Parking. For those who prefer maximum freedom of movement, an excellent option would be car rental. There are many rental agencies in Pattaya that allow you to pick up a car in the city and return it directly at U-Tapao Airport. The airport has a convenient parking lot where you can leave a car for both short and long terms. This is convenient if you are traveling around the vicinity in your own transport.

It is also worth noting that U-Tapao is not the only airport in the region. Many tourists arrive at Suvarnabhumi (BKK) or Don Mueang (DMK) in Bangkok, and from there get to Pattaya by bus or taxi, which takes about two hours. The choice of airport depends on your route and flight availability.

U-Tapao Airport (UTP) is a modern and compact aviation hub distinguished by a simple and clear structure. Currently, one main terminal is used to serve passengers, which has been significantly expanded and modernized. This makes navigating the airport extremely convenient, as all zones are located within a single building.

The terminal serves both international and domestic flights. The layout of the building is quite standard: the arrival zone is located on the first floor, and the departure zone is on the second. Thanks to this, passenger flows are effectively separated. You can move between floors using elevators and escalators. Since there is only one terminal, there is no need for transfers or shuttles between different buildings, which saves time and energy.

In the departure zone, there are airline check-in counters, passport control, and security screening points. After completing formalities, passengers enter the secure area with duty-free shops, cafes, and waiting lounges. The arrival zone includes a passport control area for international flights, baggage claim belts, and customs inspection. At the exit from the arrival zone, there are counters for taxis, car rentals, and tour companies.

Completing all procedures at U-Tapao usually takes less time than at the major airports in Bangkok. On average, check-in and screening take from 30 to 60 minutes, however, delays are possible during peak hours or the tourist season. It is recommended to arrive at the airport 2-3 hours before an international flight and 1.5-2 hours before a domestic one.

For convenient navigation, clear signs in Thai and English are installed throughout the terminal. Airport staff are generally friendly and ready to help. The main advice for travelers is simply to follow the signs for "Departures" or "Arrivals" depending on your goal, and you will easily find the sector you need.

The history of U-Tapao Airport is inextricably linked with events of the 20th century. It was founded in the mid-1960s as a military airfield, built by US engineers for the needs of their air forces during the Vietnam War. It was specifically for receiving heavy strategic B-52 bombers that one of the longest runways in the region was constructed here. After the conclusion of military operations, the facility was transferred to the Royal Thai Navy and still retains the status of an airbase.

The transition to civil use began gradually, as the tourist popularity of Pattaya and neighboring resorts grew. Initially, the airport mainly accepted charter flights to reduce the load on Bangkok's airports. Over time, its role as a civil hub grew, and it became an important air gateway for millions of tourists heading to the eastern coast of Thailand.

One of the most significant events in the airport's recent history was 2008. During the political crisis, when the capital's main airports were closed, it was U-Tapao that became the country's temporary international hub, serving a huge number of flights and helping thousands of travelers. This experience accelerated plans for its modernization. As part of a large-scale reconstruction in 2019, a new modern passenger terminal was opened, which greatly increased capacity and comfort levels.

Among interesting facts, its name stands out: "U-Tapao" translates from Thai as "harbor for junks" or "shipyard". Today, the airport is a unique example of a dual-purpose facility: it is simultaneously an active military base and a major international airport, which continues to develop under the government's "Eastern Economic Corridor" program.

U-Tapao Airport (UTP) offers passengers all necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. Regardless of whether you are arriving, departing, or transferring, here you will find amenities that will make your journey more pleasant. The terminal houses various cafes and restaurants where you can have a snack or a full lunch, enjoying both local and international cuisine. For shopping enthusiasts, there are stores, including Duty Free, where you can purchase souvenirs, perfumes, and other goods.

Waiting lounges are provided for comfortable rest at the airport. Passengers preferring enhanced comfort can use the services of VIP lounges, offering a quieter atmosphere, snacks, and beverages. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, and special stations are equipped for charging gadgets so that you are always connected.

Financial matters are easily resolved at U-Tapao Airport. Travelers have access to currency exchange points and ATMs where cash can be withdrawn. In case of unforeseen health situations, a medical center operates within the terminal, ready to provide first aid.

The airport takes care of all categories of passengers. Family rooms are provided for travelers with children. Passengers with reduced mobility are provided with necessary assistance and escort, and the terminal infrastructure is adapted for their convenience. If you have a long layover, you can stay at one of the hotels located in the immediate vicinity of the airport.

For business travelers who need to stay connected and work, business centers or conference rooms may be available at the airport, offering all conditions for holding meetings and solving work tasks.

U-Tapao Airport (UTP) offers passengers a compact but sufficient selection of establishments to have a bite before departure or upon arrival. Although the assortment here does not compare with large capital airports, you certainly won't go hungry. Most cafes and food courts are concentrated in the main terminal, both in the general area before control (landside) and in the secure departure zone (airside).

For a quick snack and aromatic coffee, popular local coffee chains such as Black Canyon Coffee and Cafe Amazon are excellent, where you can order drinks, pastries, and sandwiches. If you prefer something more familiar, a Subway operates at the airport. Connoisseurs of local cuisine will find several spots offering Thailand's classics: spicy Tom Yum soup, Pad Thai noodles, and chicken rice. This is a great opportunity to enjoy authentic flavors before flying out. Prices are generally higher than in the city: a light snack will cost 150–300 THB, and a full hot meal — from 300 THB and up.

If you have specific dietary requirements, finding specialized establishments (for example, strictly vegan or Halal) might require some effort. However, Thai cuisine is quite flexible: you can always ask for a dish to be prepared without meat, with tofu, or only with vegetables/seafood. Staff in cafes usually treat such requests with understanding. For those adhering to a gluten-free diet, dishes based on rice and fresh fruits, which are often sold pre-cut, will be a good choice.

For a leisurely lunch, establishments in the general area before passport control are better suited, where the selection is usually slightly wider. If time is pressing, cafes in the departure zone are the ideal option, where you can quickly drink coffee and eat a sandwich. It is important to remember that the opening hours of most establishments are tied to the flight schedule. They are open during peak hours but may be closed late at night or early in the morning if there are no departures.

To ensure your journey from Pattaya or to this sunny city in Thailand begins and ends smoothly, follow our tips for U-Tapao Airport. A thoughtful approach will help avoid stress and save time for relaxation.

Arrival Time and Formalities. We recommend arriving at U-Tapao Airport at least 3 hours before the departure of international flights and 2 hours before domestic ones. This will give you enough time in case of queues. To speed up the process, complete online check-in for your flight if your airline provides such an option. This will allow you to head straight to the baggage drop counter or, if you are traveling light, to the security control zone. Keep your passport and boarding pass handy.

Hand Luggage and Seat Selection. Standard rules for carrying liquids (up to 100 ml in one container, with a total volume of up to 1 liter) apply here as well. Please remember that Thailand has a strict ban on the import, export, and use of electronic cigarettes and vapes. Their presence in luggage or hand carry can lead to serious fines. When choosing a seat on the plane, consider your priorities: do you want to admire the views from the window or do you prefer the freedom of movement provided by an aisle seat? Seats in the front of the cabin usually allow for a quicker exit after landing, while emergency exit rows typically offer more legroom.

Customs Control and Transfers. When entering or leaving Thailand, be prepared for customs inspection. Declare all goods exceeding duty-free limits. If you have a transfer at U-Tapao, clarify in advance whether you need to collect your luggage and go through passport control again. Usually, during transit within one airline or alliance, luggage is transferred automatically, but it is better to double-check this at the check-in counter.

Savings and Flight Delays. To save on food and drinks, take an empty water bottle with you and fill it at drinking fountains after passing security. Transfer from the airport is better booked online in advance — this is often cheaper than taking a taxi on the spot. In case of a flight delay or cancellation, immediately contact your airline representative. Depending on the duration of the wait, you may be provided with drinks, meals, or even hotel accommodation.