Kawthoung Airport

Overview

Kawthoung Airport, also known as Kawthaung Airport, is a domestic airport serving the town of Kawthoung (formerly Victoria Point) at the southern extremity of Myanmar. It is the principal air gateway for the southern Tanintharyi Region, connecting this remote border area to Yangon and other domestic destinations. The airport primarily handles scheduled flights operated by Myanmar National Airlines and other local carriers, catering to both residents and travellers seeking access to the Myeik Archipelago or the border crossing into Thailand. Given its location on the Malay Peninsula, Kawthoung Airport plays a vital role in regional connectivity, particularly for those who prefer to avoid long overland journeys through mountainous terrain.

Location & Access

Kawthoung Airport is situated on the outskirts of Kawthoung town, approximately 4 kilometres from the city centre. The airport lies on a narrow strip of land between the Andaman Sea to the west and the dense tropical forests that cover much of the peninsula. Travel to the airport from central Kawthoung is straightforward, with taxis and tuk-tuks available from the main market area and the Pann Myit (jetty) where ferries from Thailand arrive. The journey takes about 10–15 minutes, depending on traffic. The airport is also accessible from the nearby Thai border town of Ranong via a short boat ride across the Pak Chan River, followed by a road transfer. For those driving, the airport offers a wheelchair-accessible car park, though parking space is limited. The road leading to the airport is paved but narrow; during the rainy season (May–October), sections may be affected by puddles.

Facilities

Despite its modest size, Kawthoung Airport provides essential amenities to ensure a comfortable travel experience. The terminal is equipped with a wheelchair-accessible entrance, and the car park and toilets are also wheelchair-accessible. Inside, passengers will find clean toilet facilities, including a changing table for families with infants. Baggage storage is available, which is convenient for travellers who wish to explore the area before a later flight or after arrival. The airport does not have a large selection of shops or restaurants, but basic refreshments can be purchased from small kiosks in the departure area. Seating is adequate for the airport’s passenger volume, and the check-in counters are clearly marked. There is no dedicated VIP lounge, but the open layout means waiting areas are naturally ventilated. The airport’s single runway and basic navigational aids ensure safe operations, though flight schedules are subject to weather conditions, especially during the monsoon.

About the Region

Kawthoung is the southernmost town in Myanmar, lying at the very tip of the Malay Peninsula. It is a bustling border town, with the Thai city of Ranong just across the narrow Pak Chan River. The region is known for its tropical climate, heavy rainfall, and rich biodiversity. Kawthoung serves as a jumping-off point for the Myeik Archipelago, a remote group of over 800 islands famed for pristine beaches, coral reefs, and traditional sea-gypsy communities. The area is also a centre for fishing, rubber plantations, and cashew nut processing. Travellers often stop in Kawthoung to obtain permits for the archipelago or to cross into Thailand via the Ranong border checkpoint. The town itself has a relaxed, multicultural feel, with influences from Myanmar, Thai, and Chinese communities. Key attractions include the Kawthoung Market, the Maha Muni Pagoda, and boat trips to nearby islands such as Lampi Island Marine National Park. The region is sparsely populated, and the airport is a crucial link for both tourism and local supply chains.

Practical Information

Kawthoung Airport is not open every day; flight schedules operate on specific days of the week, with peak passenger traffic typically around 5 pm and 6 pm. Travellers should confirm flight availability with their airline before planning their journey. The airport can be contacted by phone at +95 59 51 018. There is no official website available. Check-in is usually recommended at least one hour before departure for domestic flights. For international connections, most travellers will fly into Yangon International Airport and take a domestic flight onward to Kawthoung. Taxis from the airport to town charge a fixed rate; it is advisable to negotiate the fare before starting the journey. The airport is small, so navigation is easy, but queues may form during peak hours. There are no ATMs inside the terminal; the nearest banks are in central Kawthoung. Carry sufficient cash for any immediate needs.