Importance
The operation and expansion of airports can significantly impact the lifestyles of local communities, resulting in both positive and negative effects. These may include the expansion of local infrastructure, expropriation of nearby land, increased noise pollution from air traffic, and heavier road congestion. On the other hand, such developments can also bring national and local opportunities, such as increased tourism revenues, improved access to transportation networks, and enhanced community safety.
These impacts necessitate an inclusive stakeholder engagement process at the community level, along with social responsibility initiatives that foster shared value between the airport, local communities, and society at large. Moreover, community and social engagement reflects respect for fundamental human rights, including the right to life and safety, and the right to fair treatment under the law. A cooperative and value-driven approach enables AOT to grow sustainably alongside the communities and society it serves.
Policy
AOT has established a Stakeholder Engagement Policy to demonstrate its commitment to being a responsible corporate citizen and a good neighbor to surrounding communities. This policy specifically includes local communities and society as key stakeholder groups. It outlines a comprehensive framework for stakeholder identification, communication, disclosure, participation, implementation, monitoring, and reporting.
To ensure consistency across the organization, AOT has also developed stakeholder management guidelines for relevant departments and business units. These serve as a unified standard for engaging with stakeholders and building collaborative relationships across all AOT operations.
Management Approach
AOT has developed several key documents to guide its community and stakeholder engagement initiatives:
- The AOT Stakeholder Engagement Master Plan (FY2024–FY2027), revised in FY2024
- The AOT Sustainable Development Master Plan (FY2024–FY2028), revised in FY2024
- The Community-Level Stakeholder Engagement Process Manual
These documents are designed to align with the corporate direction outlined in the AOT Corporate Plan (FY2023–FY2027), revised in FY2024, and are based on key trends in the aviation industry as well as internationally recognized sustainability frameworks and standards. These include:
- AccountAbility 1000 Stakeholder Engagement Standard (AA1000SES)
- ISO 26000:2010 – Guidance on Social Responsibility
- S&P Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment Dow Jones Best-in-Class
- Global Reporting Initiative (GRI Standards 2021)
The guidelines aim to serve as a standardized operational approach for stakeholder engagement at the community level surrounding all six AOT-operated airports. They are primarily implemented by the Office of the President (Corporate Social Responsibility Department) and the Public Affairs and Community Relations Departments of the six airports, which serve as the main units responsible for community and societal engagement.
The long-term goals outlined in these plans include improving community satisfaction and generating measurable social returns through AOT’s community-focused initiatives.
| Indicators | 2027 Goals |
|---|---|
| Growth Rate of Social Return on Investment (SROI) from the FY2024 Baseline for Community Engagement Initiatives | +15% |
| Community Satisfaction with Participation in Social Engagement Initiatives | 85% |
| Successful Establishment of Stakeholder Database | 100% |
| Successful Development of Stakeholder Data Management System | 75% |
AOT’s Community Relation Framework
Airports of Thailand Public Company Limited (AOT) operates under the concept of being “Corporate Citizenship Airport (a responsible airport to citizen and a good neighbor to local communities)” in alignment with the AOT Corporate Plan for Fiscal Years 2023–2027 (Revised Edition for Fiscal Year 2024). This commitment is embedded in the company’s Strategic Objective (SO4): Lead Changes Toward Sustainability, which emphasizes:
Balancing business operations with responsibility for natural resources, the environment, society, and good governance to ensure long-term business stability and sustainable growth. This is further reinforced through:
- Strategic Theme 6: Becoming a Socially and Environmentally Friendly Airport
- Strategy 6.2: Gaining Stakeholder Acceptance
To achieve its sustainability objectives, AOT has established a strategic framework for delivering social value through four core Community Investment Focus Areas. These focus areas serve as the foundation for both corporate- and airport-level social initiatives, aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The four focus areas include: community engagement, local economic development, ecosystem conservation, and human capital development. AOT remains committed to fostering long-term care for local communities and society at large by leveraging its organizational expertise to generate positive impact and promote collaborative partnerships between airports, communities, and the broader society.
Identifying Affected Communities And Range Of Local Stakeholders
AOT has developed a community-level stakeholder database covering all six airports under its responsibility. This initiative aims to identify relevant local stakeholders, analyze their expectations, and assess appropriate engagement approaches to ensure that the company effectively addresses the specific needs of each community.
Currently, AOT applies three primary criteria to define key community areas:
- Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) boundaries
- Airport Emergency Plan (AEP) zones
- Aircraft noise contour areas
In addition, the stakeholder database includes the identification of vulnerable groups, such as youth, the elderly, and migrant workers. The database is regularly reviewed to reflect evolving community contexts.
Insights from the database are used to select appropriate engagement tools and methods tailored to high-priority stakeholders. AOT’s engagement strategy emphasizes collaborative decision-making, two-way communication, and long-term community engagement, reinforcing its commitment to inclusive and responsible operations that align with local needs.
Community Impact Assessment & Capacity Building
AOT has designated the Corporate Social Responsibility Section under the Office of the President (Head Office) and the Special Affairs and Community Relations Departments (at all six airports) as the primary units responsible for overseeing and monitoring the potential negative impacts of AOT’s operations on local communities and society.
These units are also tasked with strengthening community capacity in communication and engagement by facilitating regular on-site interactions, thereby enhancing mutual understanding and fostering long-term relationships between AOT and surrounding communities.
| Operational Approach | Community and Social Care | Target |
|---|---|---|
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AOT places great importance on the continuous support and care for communities surrounding its airports. This commitment is reflected through the implementation of various community and social initiatives at both the corporate and airport levels (Stakeholder Engagement Programs Are Applied At All Local Operations), including:
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Inter-Airport Knowledge Exchange
The Corporate Social Responsibility Division regularly facilitates the exchange of knowledge and experiences among social responsibility practitioners. This initiative aims to strengthen stakeholder engagement and enhance the effectiveness and responsiveness of CSR initiatives. Knowledge sharing is carried out through various channels, including:
The corporate intranet
After Action Reviews (AAR)
Training programs
Meetings of CSR practitioners
On-site visits to individual airports for peer learning
Other communication platforms, such as the LINE application
Complaints/Grievance Mechanism Available For Communities
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Suvarnabhumi Airport Environmental Impact Coordination Center Tel: 0 2132 9088, 0 2133 1888, 0 2132 9089 Hours: 08:00 – 17:00, daily (excluding public holidays) Corporate Communications Department Email: aotpr@airportthai.co.th Or visit www.airportthai.co.th under the “Contact & Grievance Submission” section |
| 6 Airports under AOT |
Airports of Thailand Official Website https://www.airportthai.co.th/th/ |
Local Employment Promotion
Suvarnabhumi Airport Job Fair 2024
Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) organized the 9th Suvarnabhumi Airport Job Fair from 3–5 July 2024 at the Public Transport Center, under the supervision of the airport’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) team. The initiative is part of AOT’s ongoing efforts to support local communities and address social challenges in a sustainable manner.
The primary objective of the project is to provide employment opportunities for residents living in surrounding areas—such as Lat Krabang District in Bangkok and Samut Prakan Province—as well as for the general public. Over 30 leading companies operating within the airport participated in the fair, offering direct job applications on site.
This initiative aligns with AOT’s policy to integrate social responsibility into airport operations and management. Suvarnabhumi Airport, one of AOT’s six operated airports, has been committed to community development through various long-term programs in economic, social, and environmental aspects.
Since its inception in 2013, the job fair has created sustainable employment opportunities, encouraging companies operating within the airport to hire local labor. The program has contributed to community resilience by generating jobs, supporting livelihoods, and stimulating the local economy. To date, more than 2,900 positions have been filled through this initiative.
| Key Indicators of the 2024 Job Fair Project | ||
|---|---|---|
| Community and Society | AOT | |
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Airport Site Visit
Example of a Site Visit Program at Suvarnabhumi Airport
Instructors and Students from Khon Kaen University Visited Suvarnabhumi Airport for a Study Tour
On 25 September 2024, Mr. Ek Chakriyrat, Deputy Vice President of the Special Affairs and Community Relations Department, welcomed a group of instructors and students from the Faculty of Public Health, majoring in Occupational Health and Safety, Khon Kaen University. The purpose of the visit was to study the occupational health and safety management system implemented at Suvarnabhumi Airport.
Mr. Phisit Leksawat, Director of the Occupational Safety and Health Division under the Aerodrome Standards and Occupational Health Department, delivered a lecture to share knowledge and answer questions related to the topic.
The visit also included a tour of the airport’s fire-fighting station and equipment, fire-fighting vehicles at the Main Station, the Airport Museum Building, and the Passenger Terminals. This program aimed to provide participants with first-hand experience in a real operational environment governed by international standards, enabling them to apply the knowledge gained to their future professional endeavors.
Employee Engagement in Social Responsibility Activities
Employee engagement in social responsibility initiatives is a key driver of AOT’s long-term success in implementing community-focused programs and activities. AOT promotes staff participation through two main approaches:
- Employee Volunteer Programs: AOT encourages employee involvement in various social responsibility activities by inviting participation through internal communication channels, such as the AOT Staff portal and the internal broadcasting system.
- Coordination by Lead Departments: The Corporate Social Responsibility Department and the Special Affairs and Community Relations units at all six airports serve as the key coordinating bodies. These departments are responsible for recruiting and organizing employee volunteers, coordinating with external organizations, and continuously promoting diverse and meaningful social activities that foster sustained employee participation.
Implementation
Conducting Local Community Impact Assessment
| AOT’s Community Engagement, Impact Assessment, and Social Contribution Implementation | |
|---|---|
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83% |
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100% |
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100% |
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100% |
Remark: The majority of AOT’s airports are designated as airport expansion areas required to prepare and report Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and EIA Monitoring Reports under applicable environmental and health protection regulations. However, some airports are not obligated to conduct an EIA due to the nature of their operations and are exempt under the Enhancement and Conservation of National Environmental Quality Act B.E. 2535 (1992).
Charitable Contributions & Sponsorship
AOT supports social contribution initiatives through various means, including financial contributions, approval of employee working hours for participation in social activities, donation of goods or services, and expenses related to community relations management. These initiatives are categorized into three types: charitable donations (non-profit-driven), community investments (for public benefit), and commercial social activities. The classification follows the internationally recognized Business for Societal Impact (B4SI) framework. AOT discloses the proportion and monetary value of such contributions in its Sustainability Report on an annual basis.
| Fiscal year 20247 | |
|---|---|
| AOT’s Social Contribution Value | THB 6,346,251.85 |
Social Return on Investment: SROI
AOT evaluates the effectiveness of its community engagement initiatives through both stakeholder feedback gathered during community outreach and Social Return on Investment (SROI) analysis. This approach supports continuous improvement by enabling a review of project effectiveness, refining strategies and operational processes, and guiding decisions on project expansion or replication. In addition, the results serve as a tangible and internationally recognized communication tool for engaging stakeholders.
Evaluation results
| Project | SROI |
|---|---|
| HKT Loves Coral | 1:7.46 |
| Generating Electricity from Solar Energy in Bamrungraviwan Wittaya School | 1:1.19 |
| Area improvement and Procurement of Equipment to Promote Early Childhood Development | 1:1.07 |
Corporate Sustainable Development Activities Corporate-Level Sustainable Development Initiative
“First Aid: Everyday Safety Awareness” under the AOT Volunteer Project
Airports of Thailand Public Company Limited (AOT) organized the activity “First Aid: Everyday Safety Awareness” as part of the AOT Volunteer Project, aiming to engage over 600 participants. The initiative was designed to enhance basic first aid knowledge and practical skills through both theoretical and hands-on training. The activity aligns with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO)’s guidelines on safe airport operations, emphasizing knowledge that is applicable to everyday situations, especially in fire emergency scenarios—an area in which AOT holds specialized expertise through regular emergency response drills. Under the direction of the Corporate Social Affairs Department, all six AOT-operated airports conducted this initiative uniformly. The program was supported by medical organizations that provided expert trainers and equipment. In addition, first aid kits and essential medicines were donated to schools and communities to ensure preparedness for emergencies, thereby helping to significantly reduce risks of injury, disability, and fatality.
AOT also encouraged its fire and rescue personnel to voluntarily serve as instructors, delivering both theoretical and practical training to students and local residents—reaching over 1,000 individuals between May and August 2024.
This initiative was jointly led by the Corporate Social Affairs Department at the Head Office and the Special Affairs and Community Relations Departments at the six airports, which are responsible for monitoring and improving the program on an annual basis to ensure continued positive impact on surrounding communities.
Example: Suvarnabhumi Airport
Key Outcomes:
- 100% of participants reported satisfaction with the activity and AOT instructors.
- Participants were able to apply basic first aid knowledge in daily life.
- Fire and rescue personnel had the opportunity to refresh and reinforce their emergency response procedures through continuous practice.
Airports of Thailand Public Company Limited (AOT) organized the “AOT Volunteer Forest Planting Initiative” to express loyalty and gratitude to His Majesty the King, as well as to support His Majesty’s commitment to environmental conservation—particularly in forest restoration, which is crucial in combating global warming and maintaining ecological balance. This initiative aligns with AOT’s Sustainable Development Master Plan, which emphasizes environmental and social responsibility, and addresses climate change—one of AOT’s top material issues—on the path toward achieving Net Zero emissions by 2044.
The initiative reflects AOT’s strong commitment to advancing sustainability across all dimensions—economic, social, and environmental. Forest planting helps expand green spaces, absorb carbon dioxide, mitigate global warming, and restore natural balance. Moreover, it contributes to increased oxygen levels, reduced wildfire intensity, and enhanced ecosystem richness. This project aims to conserve and pass on a thriving environment to future generations.
Project Objective: To plant 72,000 trees, based on scientific estimates that a single mature tree can absorb approximately 9–15 kg of CO₂ per year, produce enough oxygen for two people, and lower surrounding temperatures by 2–4°C.
In 2024, AOT executives, employees, airport business operators, airline representatives, government agencies, and local community members in Kanchanaburi Province jointly planted Yellow Star trees (symbolic tree of King Rama X), Siamese Rosewood (a rare species under royal conservation projects that can live over 1,500 years), and Golden Teak trees. The planting took place during 11–12 July 2024 at the watershed area upstream of Vajiralongkorn Dam in Kanchanaburi Province. AOT conducts this tree-planting activity annually to foster social and environmental responsibility among its personnel and to encourage public participation in ecological restoration.
AOT operates its airport business with a strong sense of social responsibility, under the guiding principle of being a “Corporate Citizenship Airport”—a good neighbor to local communities and a responsible member of society. This approach goes hand-in-hand with delivering strong financial performance and long-term returns for investors, enabling sustainable business growth over the long term.
AOT Selected: Sustainable Local Tourism and Community Product Promotion Project
AOT’s Commitment
The Social Affairs Department, in collaboration with the Special Affairs and Community Relations Divisions at all six AOT-operated airports, is committed to driving the “AOT Selected” initiative. This project aims to support and promote sustainable local tourism destinations and community products by identifying high-potential tourism attractions and products from communities surrounding the airports. AOT provides knowledge-based support to enhance product quality and elevate standards to meet market demands, thereby increasing income and strengthening the local economy. In addition, AOT allocates budgetary support and promotes selected communities through various communication channels to enhance their market access and foster long-term sustainability.
Operational Approach
- Aligned with the concept of long-term community investment
- Utilizes two-way communication between AOT and local communities
- Creates economic value for surrounding communities by enhancing the quality of sustainable tourism destinations and local products
Expected Outcomes
Increased community income through product sales and marketing exposure via AOT’s communication platforms
Improved product and tourism quality in line with international sustainability standards
Employment opportunities and workforce skill development in local areas to support tourism and product operations
Enhanced airport image through the display and promotion of local products and attractions within passenger terminals, positioning the airport as a cultural gateway
Strengthened trust and collaboration between AOT and surrounding communities through participatory development
Increased tourist engagement with local culture and goods, supporting eco-tourism and cultural conservation
Contribution to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by promoting local economic resilience and community sustainability
To support this initiative, AOT launched the AOT Selected project, which focuses on identifying and developing high-potential local products and tourism destinations near its six airports. The project is implemented in two phases:
| Phase 1: Selection and Preparation | Phase 2: Community Development and Capacity Enhancement |
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Performance in 2024 (Currently in Phase 1 Implementation)
- A total of six communities participated in capacity-building initiatives on management and sustainability, and completed the sustainability assessment for community and product potential.
- AOT supported six projects that promote and showcase the unique Thai identity to the international community.
The AOT Selected project reflects AOT’s commitment to creating shared value between airports and surrounding communities, contributing to sustainable development at both the local and national levels. In 2024, AOT selected six pilot communities around its six airports to serve as successful models for future expansion to other areas, as outlined below:
| Airport | Project Title | Achievement Level |
|---|---|---|
| Suvarnabhumi Airport | Training and Market Access Support Project for Sustainable Community Products – Kheha Romklao Community Group, Zone | Bronze |
| Don Mueang International Airport | AOT Wings: Don Mueang Community Empowerment | Bronze |
| Chiang Mai International Airpor | “Suthep Sustainable Tourism Plan” project | Blue medal |
| Phuket International Airport | Community Tourism Safety Promotion Project – Ban Mai Khao | Blue medal |
| Hat Yai International Airport | AOT Selected Project – Khok Muang Community Enterprise Group, Khlong Hoi Khong District, Songkhla | Blue medal |
| Mae Fah Luang – Chiang Rai International Airport | Baan Pa Sak Kai Bamboo Craft Project, Chiang Rai (AOT Selected) | Blue medal |
Remark: Scores and evaluation award medals
Pilot Communities of the AOT Selected Project
The six pilot communities participating in the “AOT Selected” Project for Promoting Sustainable Tourism and Community Products from all six airports joined a study visit to GranMonte Vineyard and Winery and the Hua Plee Community Market in Saraburi Province.
Airport Study Visit Program
The Airport Study Visit Program provides an opportunity for external organizations and educational institutions to learn about various aspects of airport management, such as safety management and the management of public transportation within the airport. The program aims to enhance understanding, facilitate knowledge exchange, and share operational concepts. In addition, it serves as a platform to attract high-potential individuals to join AOT in the future.
Flagship Sustainable Development Activity at Airport and Head Office Level
Suvarnabhumi Airport Job Fair 2024 (The 9th Suvarnabhumi Airport Job Fair)
Suvarnabhumi Airport organized the Suvarnabhumi Airport Job Fair to promote employment opportunities for new graduates and local residents living around the airport. The initiative provided participants with the opportunity to apply directly for positions that match their knowledge and skills with employers and business operators.
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Mangrove and Beach Conservation Project
Phuket Airport Mangrove Conservation Initiative in Honor of Thailand’s National Arbor Day 2024
Phuket International Airport organized the “Phuket Airport Mangrove Conservation Initiative” in recognition of Thailand’s National Arbor Day 2024, with the objective of fostering awareness and appreciation of natural resources and the environment among the Thai people. The project focused on the conservation of mangrove forests, which are critical ecosystems that serve as breeding grounds for marine life and provide a natural barrier against natural disasters—such as tsunamis—thus helping to mitigate damage to lives and property in nearby communities.
Representatives from AOT and AOT staff participated in this initiative alongside key stakeholders including the Phuket Mangrove Resource Management Center, the Phuket Airline Operators Committee (AOC), King Power Group, AOT Ground Aviation Services Co., Ltd. (AOTGA), the Village Head of Moo 1, Ban Mak Prok, local residents, and Khun Mae Ju Restaurant. The group collaboratively planted 500 mangrove saplings at the mangrove conservation area in Ban Bang Duk, Mai Khao Subdistrict, Thalang District, Phuket, aiming to restore local ecosystems and promote sustainable use of natural resources.
Phuket Airport Beach Conservation Project – Second Campaign of 2024
Phuket International Airport implemented the “Phuket Airport Beach Conservation Project – Second Campaign of 2024,” with the objective of raising public awareness and promoting collaboration among all sectors in keeping beaches clean while addressing the issue of marine debris, which directly impacts marine ecosystems and the tourism image of Phuket Province.
Executives and staff from Phuket Airport, along with representatives from Sirinat National Park, the Phuket Airline Operators Committee (AOC), airline groups, Saku Provincial Police Station, Phuket Airport Customs Office, Southern West Coast Meteorological Center, Special Operations Aviation Unit of the Third Naval Area Command, King Power Group, Mai Khao Subdistrict Administrative Organization, Sakoo Subdistrict Administrative Organization, community leaders and local residents, AOT Ground Aviation Services Co., Ltd. (AOTGA), Khun Mae Ju Restaurant, and students from Thalang Technical College, jointly participated in the activity.
The campaign successfully collected a total of 736 kilograms of waste from the beach area, spanning from Pu Ruam Shrine to the lawn in front of Phuket Airport residential quarters. This initiative reflects AOT’s commitment to environmental conservation and maintaining clean, sustainable coastal areas that support both the ecosystem and the province’s tourism sector.
Outstanding Sustainable Development Activities at Airport Level (2024)
| Airport | Example of Outstanding Sustainable Development Activities in 2024 |
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| Suvarnabhumi Airport |
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| Don Mueang International Airport |
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| Chiang Mai International Airport |
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| Phuket International Airport |
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| Hat Yai International Airport |
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| Mae Fah Luang – Chiang Rai International Airport |
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