Chiang Mai International Airport

Airport Layout

The airport has two conjoined terminal buildings, each dedicated to international or domestic arrivals/departures. The arrival halls of both buildings are found on the ground floor, while the second floor is designated for all departures.

Getting to the Airport

The airport is well served by various modes of public transport, but the most convenient (and least expensive) are the red song-taews (passenger-carrying trucks), which can be easily flagged down from anywhere in the city. Tuk-tuks (motorised three-wheelers) are also a good option, if you don’t want to share space with other passengers. Most hotels can arrange private transfers or a taxi to and from the airport.

Facilities

Being Thailand’s second largest air hub, Chiang Mai International Airport is well equipped with modern facilities. Apart from fast food joints and small coffee shops, there is a restaurant and sports bar located in the domestic terminal (second floor), while snack bars can be found throughout.

For last-minute shopping, a handful of shops offer a selection of handicrafts, silk items, souvenirs, fresh produce as well as books and magazines.

Money exchange counters and ATM machines can be found on the ground floor of both terminal buildings, along with tourist desks, travel agents and car rental services. For internet connections, there is a basic internet café on the ground floor or you can purchase usage time from Black Canyon Coffee for Wi-Fi access.

Transportation

Getting from the airport to the city is very easy. If you have a lot of luggage, getting a metered taxi is a good option. Contact the taxi desk located at the exit of both terminal buildings, before actually getting on one. For songtaews or tuk-tuks, you have to walk all the way to the main street and flag down one. As of now, the airport doesn’t allow songtaews or tuk-tuks without passengers to enter the premises. If you are lucky, you might be able to catch one in front of the terminal buildings, from a disembarking passenger. There is also a bus service that departs every 20 minutes for the Old City.

Alternatively, you might want to consider hiring an airport limousine or renting a car from the airport. Major car rental companies, such as Avis, Budget and Hertz, are represented.

Other Facilities

• Bag deposits (1st floor)
• Emergency medical care (2nd floor, 08:00 – 23:00)
• Drug stores (1st floor)
• Book shops (1st and 2nd floors)
• Tourist desks (1st floor)
• Travel agents (1st floor)