The terminal will replace the original one that has been in operation since 1989 and that was a target of increasing criticism by business event planners due to severe overcrowding.
Total arrivals to Koh Samui grew to 1.3 million in 2006 compared to half that figure just five years ago, creating an increasing need for a larger terminal facility.
Privately owned by Bangkok Airways, the new terminal comprises a cluster of low-rise buildings with steel-reinforced thatched roofs, palm tree pillars and wooden and rattan walls.
The terminal’s open-air layout also nicely blends with its coconut tree surroundings.
The development includes a walking street adjacent to the terminal, with boutique-style shops. A small, upscale hotel is also under construction.
DMCs have applauded the move, having struggled to move corporate groups through the airport in recent years.
“The new airport terminal is welcome news as there has been congestion for a long time,” said Creative Destination Management managing director, Sumate Sudasna.
More than 9,000 domestic and international direct flights per year arrive at Samui Airport from Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai, Pattaya (U-Tapao), Singapore and Hong Kong.
