Airports of Thailand, a public company that operates six Thai international airports, has given the go-ahead for Hong Kong-based ASA Group to develop Thailand's first world-class fixed base operation (FBO) at Phuket International Airport.

The state-of-the-art terminal and business center will accommodate the swelling ranks of VIP visitors to Thailand each year and is expected to be operational by the end of summer.

Simon Wagstaff, ASA's chief executive says: "We handle so many private flights into both Bangkok and Phuket and it is apparent that the time is right to cater for our growing client base of VVIP visitors from Hong Kong, who presently have nowhere in the airport to go once they disembark."

Pratuang Sornkham, the new director of Phuket International Airport, said ASA's project is "appropriate for the airport" due to the growing number of businesspeople and VIPs flying in to Phuket on board private jets.

The FBO will offer aircraft operators, passengers and aircrew a range of professional services for business and private flights, including tailored solutions for high-end, diplomatic and large aircraft operations.

ASA will also offer several other VIP services, including security, aircraft charter, concierge services, over-flight and landing clearances, customs and immigration and limousine transfers and hotel accommodation.

Phuket International Airport is the most important gateway to Thailand's premier tourist region.