Udon Thani International Airport

Udon Thani International Airport is not merely a transport hub, but the main aerial gateway to the vibrant Isan region in northeastern Thailand. This airport uniquely combines the atmosphere of provincial comfort with the importance of a strategic hub connecting the Kingdom with neighbouring Laos. Travellers appreciate it for the lack of bustle typical of capital city giants and for its intuitive navigation, allowing formalities to be completed in a matter of minutes. Your introduction to the distinctive culture of the northeast or your journey to the banks of the Mekong begins here.

Features and Advantages of the Airport:

Udon Thani Airport, despite its compact size, plays a key role in the region's logistics. Its main advantage is its strategic location: the Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge can be reached in just an hour, making it an ideal entry point for those planning to visit Vientiane. Minibuses depart directly from the terminal to the border, saving tourists from complicated transfers.

The airport terminal is simple and functional, which many consider a major plus. It is difficult to get lost here, and the distances from the check-in counter to the boarding gate are minimal. While waiting for a flight, passengers can enjoy coffee in small cafes or purchase local souvenirs for which the province is famous. The airport shares a runway with a Royal Thai Air Force base, guaranteeing excellent runway quality and a high level of flight safety.

For your convenience, we have compiled the current contact details for Udon Thani International Airport (UTH). If you have any questions, we recommend contacting the relevant services directly.

• Official Airport Website: The latest information on flight schedules, available services, and passenger regulations can be found on the official portal managed by the Department of Airports of Thailand: udonthani.airports.go.th.
• Information Desk Phone: For immediate information regarding flights and airport operations, please call: +66 42 244 426.
• Airport Address: 99 Moo 3, Mak Khaeng, Mueang Udon Thani District, Udon Thani 41000, Thailand.
• Email: For official inquiries not requiring an immediate response, you may use the address: info.uth@airports.go.th.
• Social Media: The airport maintains an official Facebook page where news and useful announcements are published. It can be found under the name "Udon Thani International Airport".
• Lost Luggage Information: If your luggage has been lost or damaged, you must first contact your airline's representative. Airline counters are located in the arrival area.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For general questions related to your stay at the airport, you may contact the main information desk number listed above.

Udon Thani International Airport (UTH) is conveniently located just a few kilometres from the city centre, making the journey there quick and simple. On average, the trip takes 15-20 minutes, although this time may increase slightly during peak hours. Depending on your budget and preferences, you can choose one of several ways to reach the terminal.

Taxi and Transfer — the most comfortable and popular option. A car can be hailed on the street, booked via an app (such as Grab, which is widely used in Thailand), or requested at your hotel reception. The cost of a trip from the city centre to the airport is usually between 150-250 Thai Baht. Many hotels also offer a pre-booked transfer service, which is particularly convenient if you have a lot of luggage or are travelling with family.

Public Transport in Udon Thani is mainly represented by songthaews — pickup trucks with two benches in the back. This is the most budget-friendly way to travel and allows you to experience the local atmosphere. The fare is minimal, but please note that songthaews do not have a fixed schedule and may make stops along the way. This option is better suited for travellers without bulky luggage. There are also shuttle buses running from the city centre to the airport, offering a balance between taxis and public transport in terms of comfort and price.

Car Rental — an excellent choice for those planning to explore not only the city but also its scenic surroundings or other provinces in the Isan region. Both international and local rental agencies operate at the airport and in the city. To rent a car, you will likely need an International Driving Permit. There is a parking lot near the airport terminal where you can leave a car for short or long periods.

Features and Recommendations. For maximum convenience and speed, we recommend using a taxi or booking a transfer. If you are travelling light and want to save money, a songthaew will be an interesting experience. Keep in mind that Udon Thani Airport is an important transport hub not only for northeastern Thailand but also for trips to neighbouring Laos. From here, it is easy to reach the border and the capital of Laos, Vientiane, home to Wattay International Airport.

Udon Thani International Airport (UTH) is distinguished by its thoughtful and passenger-friendly organisation. The airport operates one passenger terminal that serves all flights — both domestic and international. Thanks to this, orientation here is very easy, and you will not have to spend time searching for the right building or transferring between complexes.

The terminal building has two main floors, making its structure intuitively understandable. The First Floor is entirely dedicated to the arrival zone. This is where you enter after disembarking from the aircraft. Located here are the baggage claim belts, customs and immigration control counters for international arrivals, as well as the exit to the public area where you can rent a car, order a taxi, or find a hotel transfer. The Second Floor is the departure zone. Here you will find check-in counters, security checkpoints, and passport control, after which you enter a comfortable waiting hall with boarding gates.

Because all services are concentrated in one terminal, completing pre-flight formalities at Udon Thani airport usually does not take much time. For domestic flights within Thailand, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 1.5–2 hours before departure. If you have an international flight, it is better to arrive 2–2.5 hours in advance to calmly go through all procedures. Navigation signs are duplicated in English, making your stay at the airport even more comfortable.

The history of Udon Thani International Airport (UTH) is inextricably linked with the geopolitical events of the second half of the 20th century. Its foundation dates back to the 1950s when it was established as an airfield for the Royal Thai Air Force. A key stage in its development was the Vietnam War period, when from 1964 to 1976 the airport served as a major forward base for the US Air Force. During this time, its infrastructure, including the runway, was significantly expanded and modernised to accommodate heavy military aircraft, laying the foundation for its future potential.

After 1976, with the conclusion of military operations, a new phase in the airport's life began — its gradual transformation into a civil facility. It was completely transferred to Thai administration, and the focus shifted to serving passenger transport, contributing to the economic development of the entire northeastern Isan region. This transitional period was marked by the construction of the first civil terminal, which allowed for the separation of military and commercial flows.

In the 21st century, the airport underwent several stages of large-scale reconstruction to meet the rapidly growing passenger traffic. A key event was the opening of a new, more spacious, and modern terminal in 2006, which was subsequently expanded further. Today, Udon Thani is one of the busiest airports in the region. An interesting historical fact: the airport still retains its dual status. It is simultaneously an important civil hub and an active military base, where modern passenger liners coexist with fighter jets of the Royal Thai Air Force.

Udon Thani International Airport (UTH) offers passengers a compact but functional set of services, ensuring a comfortable stay before departure. Despite its relatively small size, the terminal is designed to meet the basic needs of travellers.

Inside the terminal, you will find several cafes and snack bars where you can have a bite to eat or drink coffee. The assortment includes both Thai cuisine and familiar international options. There are also shops where you can purchase souvenirs, daily necessities, and products from local artisans. The selection is not as vast as in capital city airports, but quite sufficient for last-minute gift shopping.

For those who value enhanced comfort, there is a VIP Lounge at the airport. Here, passengers can relax in silence, enjoy complimentary snacks and beverages, and read the latest press. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, and charging stations for electronic devices are installed in waiting areas so you can always stay connected.

Financial services are represented by ATMs and several currency exchange points where you can conduct transactions with major world currencies. In case of illness, a medical station operates at the airport, ready to provide first aid.

For passengers travelling with small children, mother and child rooms are equipped where you can feed and change your baby in a quiet environment. The airport also provides necessary facilities for passengers with reduced mobility, including ramps and specially equipped restrooms. Assistance with movement through the terminal is available upon request to the airline.

There are no hotels directly on the airport grounds, however, in the immediate vicinity, there are many accommodation options to suit every taste and budget, which can be reached by taxi in a few minutes. Specialised conference halls are not provided at the airport, but basic business services, such as workspace and internet, can be found in the VIP lounge.

At Udon Thani International Airport (UTH), passengers will find several options for a snack or a full meal, befitting the status of a busy regional hub. The selection here is not as huge as in major capital airports, but it is sufficient to pass the time comfortably while waiting for a flight. Most establishments are located in the public hall of the terminal, before security control (landside), so it is best to plan your lunch or dinner in advance.

For those looking for a quick bite, several coffee shops and snack bars are available. Here you can order coffee, pastries, sandwiches, and soft drinks. This is an ideal option if you are short on time. Additionally, the terminal has convenience store-style shops where you can always buy snacks, water, and ready-made meals at affordable prices. For a more substantial meal, there is a small food court or several cafes offering Thai cuisine. Here you can try classics like Pad Thai (stir-fried noodles) or Khao Pad (fried rice).

Prices at Udon Thani airport are moderate by airport standards, though slightly higher than in the city itself. Most establishments open early in the morning and operate until the last flight departs. Regarding dietary preferences, vegetarians will find it easiest — Thai cafe menus almost always feature dishes with vegetables and tofu. Finding certified Halal, vegan, or gluten-free options might be challenging, so travellers with strict dietary restrictions are advised to carry their own snacks.

After passing security control (airside), the choice is usually limited to a small cafe or vending machines with drinks and snacks. Therefore, the main advice is to resolve all gastronomic matters before you head to the departure zone. This will allow you to enjoy your meal calmly and without rushing before your flight.

Planning a trip through Udon Thani airport will be easier if you take note of a few useful tips. This will help you save time and stress, making the start or end of your journey through Thailand as comfortable as possible.

Arrival Time at the Airport. Udon Thani International Airport primarily serves domestic flights, so it is not as busy as the capital hubs. It is recommended to arrive 1.5-2 hours before domestic flights and 2-2.5 hours before international ones. This time will be sufficient for a calm completion of all formalities.

Check-in and Security. To avoid queues, use online check-in if your airline offers this service. Security checkpoints here work efficiently, but it is better to have a time buffer during peak hours. Keep your passport and boarding pass handy.

Seat Selection. If you are flying to or from Bangkok, choose a window seat. In good weather, you will be treated to picturesque views of rice paddies and the rural landscapes of central Thailand. For greater comfort and the ability to stretch your legs, aisle seats are more suitable.

Hand Luggage. Remember the standard restrictions: liquids in containers no larger than 100 ml (total volume up to 1 litre), packed in a transparent bag. Power banks are permitted only in hand luggage. Sharp and cutting objects are strictly prohibited.

Transfer Passengers. Udon Thani Airport is not a major transit hub, but if you have a connection, you will find several cafes and rest areas here. Navigation through the terminal is intuitive; it is practically impossible to get lost.

Customs Control. When leaving the country or arriving on an international flight, follow the standard corridor system. If you have no goods to declare, proceed confidently through the "Green Channel". Otherwise, use the "Red Channel".

Saving Time and Money. Book a transfer to your hotel online in advance or compare prices for taxis and shared vans at official counters in the arrivals hall. It is better to exchange currency at the airport to a minimum, as the rate here is often less favourable than in the city.

Flight Delays. In case of a schedule change, contact your airline representative immediately. In the event of a long delay, you should be provided with drinks and meals. Monitor information on the departure boards and do not leave the waiting area without notifying staff.