Pakse International Airport is undergoing another expansion to accommodate the steadily growing number of air passengers.
Officials said expansion of the passenger terminal is now 30 percent complete and is expected to be finalised by July 2026.
Minister of Public Works and Transport Mr Leklay Sivilay and a ministry delegation visited the airport this week to inspect progress and provide on-site guidance to the project team.
The Director of Pakse International Airport, Mr Noukhon Keobuavan, said development of the airport is being rolled out under a three-phase plan aimed at addressing both immediate needs and long-term growth.
In the short term, the departure hall is being enlarged to handle 300 passengers at one time. The work includes general repairs, installation of safety equipment, improvements to the aircraft apron and parking areas, and upgrades to the electrical system.
The medium-term phase involves a feasibility study on the extension of the runway from 2,400 to 3,000 metres, enabling the airport to accommodate larger aircraft and expand its route potential.
In the long term, authorities plan to identify a new location for an international airport in Champasak province that will better meet regional and international aviation standards.
During his visit, Minister Leklay said airports reflect a country’s level of development. He noted that Champasak province is a key tourism hub in southern Laos, and inadequate transport infrastructure could hinder tourism growth and broader economic development.
The minister instructed the project team to prioritise safety alongside increased passenger capacity, ensure timely completion of the upgrade, and comply with accepted standards to ensure long-term safety and efficiency.
Improvements to the airport should align with the government’s sustainable development objectives and support the continued growth of tourism and trade in the region, he added.
Pakse International Airport expansion now 30 percent complete
