Suan Dusit Poll asked 1,286 people between January 25 and January 28 what they thought was the root cause of the airport crisis.

According to 48 per cent, corruption was the main cause of difficulties befalling the four-month-old international airport.

Nearly one in four - or 24.5 per cent - said runway damage and other problems at the Bt150-billion field would tarnish the country's reputation in the eyes of foreigners. Another 16.5 per cent felt unsafe using the airport.

Problems at Suvarnabhumi surfaced before it opened last September. The most serious to date are runway and taxiway cracks. Repairs are underway.

Some low-cost airlines are willing to return to Bangkok International Airport at Don Muang that was closed upon the opening of Suvarnabhumi.

According to the poll, 50.5 per cent of respondents wanted investigations speeded up. Those found guilty of corrupt activities must be punished.

Another 37 per cent said airport repairs needed to be completed swiftly and nearly 8 per cent said problems must be solved at the root cause without political intervention.