Phuket airport defends ban on activating ride-hailing apps

Phuket International Airport has defended newly installed signs barring drivers from waiting or activating ride‑hailing apps in front of the terminal, following criticism on social media that they restrict passengers’ transport options.

Airport director Monchai Tanod said on Sunday the signs were put up to help regulate public transport services within the airport area and prevent unauthorised vehicles waiting near the terminal for passengers, or offering service outside the designated zones.

Images of the signs, “Waiting or opening any application to pick up passengers in this area is not permitted”, sparked online debate over whether the airport was shutting out app‑based transport services. Mr Monchai stressed that was not the case. (continues below)

The sign in Thai translates as: “Waiting or opening any application to pick up passengers in this area is not permitted.” (Photo: Phuket Info Centre)

He said only authorised vehicles may operate inside designated pick‑up zones, and those already approved – metered taxis, airport limousines, public buses, car‑rental operators and licensed app‑based platforms such as Grab – continue to operate normally.

All transport providers serving the airport must pass security and background checks, register their vehicle and driver details, and comply with service standards, he said. This allows the airport to trace complaints and act quickly if passengers encounter problems, something that is impossible with unregistered drivers.

Mr Monchai added that two additional ride‑hailing platforms, Bolt and inDriver, had been approved by the Department of Land Transport and were in the process of applying for permission to operate within the airport grounds. Suitable pick‑up areas would be assigned once the review is complete.

He said the signs were meant to prevent unauthorised drivers from loitering in restricted zones and approaching travellers directly, an issue that has generated complaints and posed safety concerns.

Phuket International Airport remains committed to improving passenger convenience, safety and fairness, and welcomes public feedback as it continues to upgrade transport management at the gateway, Mr Monchai said.