AOT inks two Suvarnabhumi deals; ground handling due in 2027

Airports of Thailand (AOT) has signed two public-private partnership contracts with AOT Ground Aviation Services Co., Ltd. (AOTGA) for Suvarnabhumi Airport’s third ground-handling and cargo operator, with ground services expected to begin in 2027.
AOT president Paweena Jariyathitipong signed the agreements covering apron and ground support equipment services, ground passenger services and related operations, alongside a separate cargo warehouse project.

AOT said the selection process followed Section 36 of the Public-Private Partnership Act B.E. 2562 (2019). AOTGA submitted proposals and was selected to undertake both projects.

The Cabinet approved the selection of AOTGA and the contracts’ key terms on September 8, 2026, following a proposal from the Transport Ministry.

Ground handling expected to start in 2027

AOTGA will prepare personnel and equipment for the ground support equipment (GSE) project, which is expected to begin providing services in 2027.

The cargo project requires warehouse construction and other preparations, which are expected to take approximately 23 months. The cargo project has an overall term of 25 years.

Service targets backed by penalties

AOT has included service-efficiency key performance indicators in the contracts, together with penalties and fines if AOTGA fails to meet contractual requirements.

AOT said appointing a third operator would increase Suvarnabhumi’s capacity, offer airlines more service options and help address delays. The projects also support business continuity planning intended to keep airport services running without interruption.

AOT said the additional ground-handling and cargo services would help accommodate growing flight and freight volumes, improve service efficiency and support the future expansion of Thailand’s aviation and logistics industries.