Phuket Launches New Electric Bus Route Connecting Airport and Rawai

Phuket has introduced a new electric bus service linking Phuket International Airport with Rawai, giving residents and visitors another public transport option. Fares start at 40 baht.

The route was officially launched on November 2 by the Phuket Provincial Administrative Organisation (PPAO). A fleet of 10 air-conditioned electric buses now operates under Route 8580, connecting the airport with the southern part of the island.

Buses travel from Phuket International Airport along Chaloem Phra Kiat Rama IX Road to Ban Rawai, providing a direct public transport link between the airport and the Rawai area.

Standard fares start at 40 baht. Students, religious practitioners, passengers with disabilities and elderly people are eligible for free travel.

Phuket Governor Chotnarin Kerdsom presided over the launch ceremony, which was attended by PPAO President Rewat Areerob, provincial officials, community representatives and local residents.

Rewat said improving public transport was among the organisation's priorities, with the aim of reducing traffic congestion and making journeys more convenient for both residents and tourists.

The new service is expected to encourage greater use of public transport instead of private vehicles. According to the PPAO, the initiative should also help ease road congestion, conserve energy and reduce the environmental impact of transportation.

Rewat encouraged residents and visitors to use the new route, describing it as another step towards Phuket's ambition to become a sustainable smart city.