The future of the proposed Mukdahan Airport remains uncertain following statements from Thailand’s Ministry of Transport indicating that the project is currently not a priority due to concerns over financial feasibility. The project, initiated by the Department of Airports (DOA), has encountered significant regulatory and planning challenges, delaying its progress despite initial studies suggesting economic benefits.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport Suriya Jungrungreangkit recently told the media that the government has no immediate plans to move forward with the construction of the airport. He suggested that nearby existing facilities—such as Sakon Nakhon and Nakhon Phanom airports—should be used instead, along with the Savannakhet Airport in Laos, which lies just 10 minutes from Mukdahan province.
Currently, the Mukdahan Airport project is in the detailed design phase, including planning for runways, taxiways, terminal buildings, and related infrastructure. Simultaneously, an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report is under review. The DOA has submitted its EIA to the Office of Natural Resources and Environmental Policy and Planning (ONEP), following site assessments conducted in Tambon Khampalai, Mueang District, over an area of approximately 2,000 rai.
However, the review committee—tasked with evaluating land and air infrastructure projects—has not approved the current EIA draft. The committee identified numerous issues requiring revision. These include better coordination with relevant agencies, updated passenger and flight forecasts, reassessment of economic value, and clarification of construction plans. Environmental concerns also play a significant role in the review, such as seismic risk analysis, wildlife and forestry data, flood management, and potential impacts on local ecosystems and bird populations.
Further revisions are required to cover air quality, noise, vibrations, socio-economic impacts, community involvement, land use, and public health implications. In addition, more detailed analysis is needed on historical and archaeological preservation and updated mitigation strategies in line with current conditions.
The DOA aims to submit a revised EIA by December 2025, pending completion of the necessary studies. A final determination on whether the EIA will be approved is expected within a year of submission. If the process mirrors that of the Nakhon Pathom Airport project—which faced repeated EIA rejections and was ultimately scrapped—Mukdahan Airport could face the same fate.
Initially valued at approximately 5 billion baht, the project began with a feasibility study in 2018. While the study suggested economic merit, it found the financial return insufficient. By 2020, detailed designs and the original EIA were commissioned, with construction initially scheduled for 2026 and operations by 2029. That timeline has since shifted to construction beginning in 2028 and operations in 2031.
According to the DOA, the project’s fate ultimately depends on whether future administrations and the Ministry of Transport choose to support and fund it. Without backing at the cabinet level, the project is unlikely to proceed.
Officials and technical experts involved in the environmental and engineering assessments were present during site evaluations, but their participation does not guarantee the project’s advancement without clear policy direction from higher authorities.
