The airliner had arrived on the island, which is off the east coast of Thailand and is popular with European tourists, after setting off from the mainland town of Krabi on the west coast, which is another popular destination.

"I can confirm that there was just an incident with our aircraft from Krabi to Samui that landed and skidded off the runway," said Nandhika Varavan, a spokesman for Bangkok Airways. "We managed to evacuate all passengers and so far there are no deaths but some passengers are wounded," she said, without giving a specific number.

Bangkok Airways flies three times a week between the two tourist spots using 70-seater Turboflot aircrafts, an official said. Koh Samui, a small tropical island, is a favourite destination for British backpackers and gap-year students, as well as Americans, who flock there to enjoy its relaxed atmosphere, seafood and fine beaches.