The clarification follows widespread circulation online of a photograph of the sign, which bears the logo of the Phuket branch of Airports of Thailand (AoT Phuket), which operates Phuket Airport.
The sign states: “Drivers are prohibited from waiting for passengers in this area. It is forbidden to open or use ride-hailing applications to accept passengers here.” It adds that the regulation aims to control public transport services, ensure safety and prevent unauthorised operators.
In a statement issued by AoT Phuket, airport management said the sign was installed to regulate public transport services within the airport and prevent external operators from gathering to solicit passengers outside designated service areas.
“Currently, Phuket Airport provides several public transport options for passengers,” the statement said.
These include airport limousine services, meter taxis, bus routes, rental cars and ride-hailing applications such as Grab, AoT Phuket said.
Airport officials said transport operators wishing to provide services inside the airport must undergo a verification process, including criminal background checks for drivers and registration of vehicle and operator details.
The process enables authorities to identify and track drivers and provide assistance if passengers encounter problems. Violations of service agreements may result in penalties, the airport said.
AoT Phuket added that the signs were installed to address complaints involving individuals offering transport services without being registered with the airport, making it difficult for authorities to trace drivers or resolve disputes.
AoT Phuket also recognised that two ride-hailing platforms licensed by the Department of Land Transport — Bolt and inDriver — are currently seeking approval to operate within the airport.
Phuket Airport said the applications are under consideration and that suitable service points are being evaluated to ensure orderly passenger services.
The issue comes amid continued enforcement against illegal passenger transport at the airport.
The Phuket Provincial Land Transport Office (PLTO) reported that officers conducted a checkpoint operation at the airport last Thursday (Mar 6).
The inspection targeted private vehicles with black licence plates suspected of illegally transporting passengers, along with other potential violations of the Motor Vehicle Act and the Transport Act, the PLTO said in its report.
The report released by the transport office did not specify whether drivers using the ride-hailing platforms Bolt or inDriver had been refused entry to the airport.