Foreign flights could go back to Don Mueang

Airports of Thailand (AoT) announced recently that they would like to see the return of international flights to Bangkok’s old airport, Don Mueang.

Don Mueang was closed in 2006 when Bangkok opened its larger, more modern airport, Suvarnabhumi. Flights resumed at Don Mueang on a domestic level after the new airport began experiencing some problems in March 2007, and crowding at the airport is causing the AoT to call for a reopening of Don Mueang on an international scale.

Chirmsak Pinthong, a spokesperson from the AoT board and a former senator said that the AoT board approved plans to reopen Don Mueang for international traffic during a meeting held last Saturday. He added that airlines would be able to decided for themselves which airport to use.

The meeting also discussed expansion plans at Suvarnabhumi. The second phase of construction at the airport may be speeded up and the time line for the second phase of expansion at Phuket International Airport was also discussed. According to the AoT, both Phuket International and Suvarnabhumi suffer from congestion.

Transport Minister Theera Haocharoen is expected to discuss these issues at a weekly cabinet meeting with other government officials.