PHUKET tourism is set to get a boost with the Ministry of Tourism and Sport announcement today that the six airports operating under Airports of Thailand, including Phuket, would slash landing fees by as much as 90 percent.

As well, any airlines applying to land at the airports would be granted approval within three hours and allowed to operate within 24 hours, said Tourism Minister Chumpol Silpa-acha.

Landing fees at Phuket, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai and Haad Yai would be cut by 50 to 90 percent, while fees at Bangkok's airports Don Mueang and Suvarnabhumi would be reduced by 20 percent.

The fee discounts would take effect on March 1 and last until September 30.

Phuket International Airport Director Wing Commander Wicha Nurnlop told Phuketwan today that he's pleased with the move and that the airport is ready to welcome more flights to the island.

Phuket air traffic for January was down 16.5 percent, with 3470 flights in and out of Phuket airport during the month compared with 4155 in January 2008.

Flight figures include both passenger and cargo planes.

Despite the tourism slowdown, plans to expand the airport are still going ahead, Khun Wicha said, and Phuket Governor Dr Preecha Ruangjan has given full support to the project.