Call to revive idle Betong AirportListen to this articleBetong Airport terminal in Betong district, Yala province, is decorated with 'phai tong', or sweet bamboo. Betong International AirportFormer Democrat Party deputy leader Samart Ratchapolsitte has urged the government to take urgent action to revitalise Betong Airport in Yala province, warning against allowing the billion-baht facility to remain largely unused despite its completion. In a Facebook post, Mr Samart -- a former Bangkok deputy governor -- described Betong Airport as one of Thailand's most visually striking airports. Mr Samart said Betong Airport handled only 728 passengers last year, averaging just two passengers per day and fewer than half a flight per day. At present, only Ezy Airlines operates flights between Hat Yai and Betong, using small Cessna aircraft with just 10–12 seats.

Source: Bangkok Post February 01, 2026 22:52 UTC