Chumphon Airport (CJM)
Chumphon Airport (IATA: CJM, ICAO: VTSE) serves as a convenient regional gateway in southern Thailand, particularly for travelers heading to the Gulf of Thailand islands, including Koh Tao, Koh Phangan, and Koh Samui. Located in Pathio District, approximately 35 to 40 kilometers north of Chumphon city, the airport offers direct access to nearby ferry terminals that connect to popular island destinations.
Airport Overview
Chumphon Airport is designed to facilitate smooth regional travel with a focus on simplicity and convenience. Though modest in size, the airport provides essential facilities, including:
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Snack bars and coffee shops
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Fast-food outlets
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Car rental services
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Transfer arrangements to ferry piers
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Wheelchair-accessible amenities
The terminal is straightforward and easy to navigate, making it suitable for both domestic tourists and international travelers transferring from Bangkok.
Airlines and Routes
Chumphon Airport is primarily served by two major low-cost carriers, offering regular flights to Bangkok:
Nok Air
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Route: Chumphon ⇌ Don Mueang International Airport (DMK), Bangkok
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Known for: Budget fares and reliable service
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Ideal for: Travelers connecting from Bangkok to the islands
Thai AirAsia
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Route: Chumphon ⇌ Don Mueang International Airport (DMK), Bangkok
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Known for: Efficient check-in process, extensive domestic network
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Ideal for: Flexible flight times and competitive ticket prices
Note: At present, the airport does not serve international routes, and flight frequency may be limited compared to larger regional airports.
Island Transfer Services
Chumphon Airport plays a key role in streamlined travel to the Gulf islands. Dedicated counters and service desks are available at the terminal to assist passengers with combined bus-and-boat transfer packages to:
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Koh Tao
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Koh Phangan
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Koh Samui
High-speed catamarans and joint ticket options make it easy for travelers to arrange onward transport upon arrival. However, due to fluctuating ferry schedules—especially during monsoon season or peak periods—passengers are advised to coordinate flight and ferry times in advance for a smooth connection.
Accessibility and Future Plans
The airport is wheelchair accessible and includes basic passenger amenities such as restrooms, information counters, and vehicle parking. There are future expansion plans aimed at increasing terminal capacity and enhancing facilities to better accommodate growing tourism demand in the region.
Summary
Chumphon Airport is a practical and efficient option for travelers seeking access to Thailand’s Gulf islands. While its flight network is currently limited to domestic routes—primarily Bangkok—the airport’s location and transport links make it a valuable transit hub for island-bound travelers.
