PPAO launches Airport–Rawai electric bus service

Ten electric buses began operating on a 51-kilometre route between Phuket International Airport and Rawai on 2 November, providing a new public transport link across Phuket.

The service, designated Route 8580 (Category 4), is operated by the Phuket Provincial Administrative Organisation (PPAO). It runs via Thepkrasattri Road, Chalerm Phrakiat Ror 9 Road, Kathu and Phuket Town before terminating in Rawai.

Stops include Thalang Technical College, the Heroines Monument, Central Phuket, Wat Chalong and Chalong Circle. Fares range from B40 to B120, depending on distance. Students, members of the clergy, people with disabilities and elderly passengers can travel free of charge.

Buses operate in both directions from 5:45am to 8pm, with 16 scheduled trips daily. Facilities include GPS tracking through an application, CCTV cameras, wheelchair lifts, USB charging ports and free Wi-Fi.

PPAO Chief Executive Rewat Areerob said the service was intended to give residents and tourists another public transport option, reduce traffic congestion and lessen reliance on private vehicles. The launch ceremony was presided over by Phuket Governor Chotinarin Kerdsom and attended by provincial police commander Pol Maj Gen Surachai Suksai, Phuket Land Transport Office Chief Adcha Buachan and other officials.

The PPAO said the service forms part of efforts to develop Phuket’s public transport network and support the island’s Smart City ambition.