Chiang Rai International Airport
Overview
Chiang Rai International Airport, also known as Mae Fah Luang-Chiang Rai
International Airport (CEI), is the main airport serving Chiang Rai Province
in Northern Thailand. It is located approximately 8 kilometers from the city
center of Chiang Rai. Named in honor of Princess Mother Srinagarindra, the
airport has been operational since 1998. It handles over 2 million
passengers annually and is an important gateway for both domestic and
international travelers visiting this scenic and culturally rich region.
Facilities
Chiang Rai International Airport offers a variety of facilities to ensure a
pleasant travel experience:
- Terminal Building: The airport has a single terminal that caters to both
domestic and international flights. The terminal is modern and well-equipped
to handle a growing number of passengers.
- Lounges: There are comfortable lounges available for passengers, including
the Thai Airways Royal Orchid Lounge, which offers amenities such as
complimentary refreshments, Wi-Fi, and comfortable seating.
- Shopping and Dining: The airport features several shops and dining
options. Passengers can enjoy local Thai cuisine as well as international
dishes at various restaurants and cafes. There are also duty-free shops and
souvenir stores for travelers looking to purchase gifts and local products.
- Services: Essential services like ATMs, currency exchange, free Wi-Fi,
information counters, and medical facilities are available within the
terminal. Baggage services and car rental desks are also conveniently
located.
- Parking: Ample parking space is available for both short-term and
long-term parking needs.
Public Transportation
- Taxi: Taxis are readily available outside the terminal, providing a
convenient mode of transportation to the city center and surrounding areas.
It's recommended to use the official taxi service from the airport's
designated taxi stand.
- Airport Shuttle Bus: An airport shuttle bus service connects the airport
to various parts of Chiang Rai city, including major hotels and tourist
attractions.
- Private Transfers: Private car services and ride-hailing apps like Grab
are popular for more personalized and direct transportation.
- Car Rentals: Several car rental agencies operate at the airport, offering
a range of vehicles for hire, allowing travelers to explore Chiang Rai and
its surroundings at their own pace.
Airlines
Chiang Rai International Airport hosts several domestic and international
airlines:
- Domestic Airlines: Major domestic carriers include
Thai Airways,
Bangkok
Airways, Thai AirAsia,
Nok Air,
and
Thai Lion Air. These airlines provide
frequent flights to key destinations such as Bangkok, Phuket, and Chiang
Mai.
- International Airlines: International airlines such as AirAsia,
China
Eastern Airlines, and
China Southern Airlines operate flights connecting
Chiang Rai to various cities in China, Singapore, and other Asian
destinations.
Conclusion
Chiang Rai International Airport is a modern facility that plays a crucial
role in connecting Northern Thailand to the rest of the country and the
world. With its range of facilities, efficient services, and various
transportation options, it ensures a comfortable and convenient travel
experience for all passengers. Whether traveling domestically or
internationally, passengers can expect a smooth journey through Chiang Rai
International Airport.
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