Phuket International Airport has launched automated immigration gates for arriving international passengers and announced plans to more than double the number of autogates to speed up entry procedures and reduce congestion.
The new arrivals autogate service began operations on Saturday, marking the first time international passengers entering Thailand through Phuket Airport can use automated immigration clearance, according to a Bangkok Post report. Previously, autogates were available only for departing travellers, while arrivals had to pass through staffed immigration counters.
Phuket Airport General Manager Monchai Tanode inaugurated the service and said the airport plans to increase the number of arrival autogates from 10 to 21. At the same time, the number of manned immigration counters will be reduced from 24 to 16.
Faster immigration process
Airport authorities said the move is aimed at easing congestion at immigration checkpoints and improving the passenger experience at one of Thailand’s busiest international gateways.
According to Bangkok Post report, Monchai did not provide a timeline for the expansion but said the additional autogates would help shorten waiting times and raise service standards at the airport.
The airport installed the first 10 arrival autogates in response to complaints from travellers about long queues and delays during immigration processing.
E-passport holders only
The automated system is currently available only to passengers carrying e-passports.
Phuket Airport serves as a key entry point for international tourists visiting Thailand’s southern resort island, as reported by Bangkok Post. The expansion comes as the country continues efforts to improve travel infrastructure and streamline immigration procedures amid strong tourism demand.
Airport officials expect the wider use of automated immigration technology to reduce pressure on manual counters and improve passenger flow during peak travel periods.
