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Published on September 18, 2007

"Airports of Thailand announced that Phuket Airport resumed operations at 3.30pm," an airport spokeswoman said.

Prime Minister Surayud Chulanont boarded a special flight and was the first to touch down at Phuket after the crash. He visited relatives of the victims' and affirmed that Thai aviation standards were up to international standards.

Prior to the trip, Surayud told officials about the need to be thorough in collecting forensic evidence from the ill-fated plane and retrieving the remaining bodies from Phuket airport - to ensure all victims were properly identified.

He said he would also focus on improving what needed to be done for Thai aviation in processing data from the flight recorders. If the country could develop its own system, it could investigate air disasters more conveniently and faster, he said.

The premier said the authorities would call in all operating airlines to urge them to comply with proper safety standards.

During his meeting with victims' families later yesterday, Surayud offered sympathy and support. He said authorities would await data from two "black boxes" from the wrecked jet but it would take a few weeks.

Senior aviation medic Dr Surachet Sathiniramai said most of those who died had suffocated. Fewer than 10 people were burnt to death. The identification process is expected to be completed in the next three days.

The Nation