Travelling via Trat Airport (TDX) is the fastest and most convenient way to reach Koh Chang. Bangkok Airways operates direct flights from Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK), with quick and easy onward transfers to the island. This updated 2026 guide covers flight times, shared minivans, private taxis, ferry schedules, typical prices and practical travel tips.
Flights from Bangkok to Trat Airport (TDX)
Bangkok Airways is currently the only airline flying between Bangkok Suvarnabhumi (BKK) and Trat (TDX). The flight takes around 40–60 minutes, with typically 2–3 departures per day depending on season and day of the week.
Example Bangkok → Trat Flight Times (2026)
| Flight | Typical Departure (BKK) | Typical Arrival (TDX) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| PG30x | ~11:40 | ~12:40 | Late morning / midday |
| PG30x | ~16:15 | ~17:15 | Afternoon / early evening |
Flight times vary slightly throughout the year, so always check the schedule when booking.
Example Trat → Bangkok Flight Times (2026)
| Flight | Typical Departure (TDX) | Typical Arrival (BKK) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| PG30x | ~10:15 | ~11:15 | Morning return |
| PG30x | Early–mid afternoon | ~1 hour later | Afternoon return |
Arriving at Trat Airport – What to Expect (2026)
Trat Airport is small, relaxed and extremely easy to navigate. Most travellers are off the plane, through baggage claim and into their transfer within 10–15 minutes.
When the aircraft lands, you disembark via steps and walk a short distance into the open-air arrivals building. There are no long corridors or busy terminals.
Baggage collection is quick, using a single conveyor belt. Immediately outside the baggage area is the official transfer desk, where staff arrange shared minivans and private taxis for every flight arrival.
After purchasing your transfer ticket, staff direct you to the correct vehicle based on your hotel location. The drive from Trat Airport to Ao Thammachat Pier takes around 20–30 minutes through quiet rural roads. Many drivers make a brief stop near the pier for ferry tickets, snacks or drinks.
Overall, the arrival experience is smooth, friendly and very straightforward.
Map – Trat Airport (TDX)
Getting from Trat Airport to Koh Chang
You can travel from Trat Airport to Koh Chang via shared minivan or private taxi. Both connect directly to Ao Thammachat Pier.
Shared Minivan Transfers (Most Popular)
Shared minivans meet every Bangkok Airways flight and provide the most convenient and cost-effective option for most travellers.
| Ticket Type | Typical Price | Includes |
|---|---|---|
| Airport → Koh Chang (Hotel Drop-Off) | ~550–900 THB | Minivan + ferry ticket |
| Airport → Ferry Pier Only | ~280–400 THB | Songthaew or minivan to pier (some include ferry ticket) |
Prices vary by operator, season and whether the ferry ticket is included.
Travel Times
| Section | Typical Time |
|---|---|
| Airport → Ao Thammachat Pier | 20–30 minutes |
| Ferry Crossing (Ao Thammachat → Ao Sapparot) | ~30 minutes |
| Pier → West Coast Hotels | 15–40 minutes |
Most travellers reach their hotel around 2.5–3 hours after landing.
Private Taxi Transfers
Private taxis offer faster, more direct travel, ideal for families, groups or travellers with heavy luggage.
| Vehicle Type | Passengers | Typical Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private Car | 1–3 | From ~1,500 THB | Airport → Pier |
| Private Minivan | 4–8 | From ~1,800–2,200 THB | Airport → Pier |
| Taxi + Hotel Drop-Off | 1–8 | Higher overall | Includes ferry + island transfer |
Which Pier Will Your Transfer Use?
All transfers from Trat Airport use Ao Thammachat Pier, the main ferry terminal for Koh Chang. Ferries arrive at Ao Sapparot Pier on the island.
Ferry Timetables (2026)
| Route | First Ferry | Last Ferry | Frequency | Crossing Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ao Thammachat → Ao Sapparot (Koh Chang) | 06:30 | 18:30 | Every 45 mins (20–30 mins in high season) | ~30 mins |
Map – Ao Thammachat Pier (Koh Chang Ferry)
Booking Transfers from Trat Airport
Booking Online
- Online booking platforms such as 12Go
- Local minibus operators
- Private transfer companies
Booking at the Airport
- Transfer desk located outside baggage claim
- Shared minivans and taxis meet every flight
- Cash payments accepted (card accepted by some operators)
- No advance reservation required
If your flight arrives after about 16:30, head straight to your transfer to comfortably reach the last ferry at around 18:30.
Returning from Koh Chang to Trat Airport
Shared minivans and private taxis can be arranged through hotels, travel shops or online. Pickup for shared transfers is usually around three hours before your flight.
Private taxis offer more flexibility and are best for very early or late flights.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the journey from Trat Airport to Koh Chang take?
Around 2.5–3 hours door to door.
Do minivan tickets include the ferry fare?
Often yes, but not always — check when booking.
Do I need to pre-book transfers?
No, transfers meet every flight, but pre-booking is helpful in high season.
Are there flights from Don Mueang (DMK)?
No — flights to Trat run only from Bangkok Suvarnabhumi (BKK).
Is it reliable during rainy season?
Yes. Delays can happen, but cancellations are unusual.
Summary
Flying to Trat Airport remains the quickest and easiest way to reach Koh Chang. With short direct flights, smooth transfers and regular ferries from Ao Thammachat, the journey is straightforward, convenient and well-suited to both first-time visitors and returning travellers.
Book Reliable Transport to Koh Chang with 12Go
12Go is one of Thailand’s most trusted booking platforms for buses, minibuses, ferries and domestic flights. Search routes, compare prices and secure your journey to Koh Chang in minutes. Many services include the ferry ticket in the price.