thai approves suvarnabhumi

The private sector agrees with the government's policy of making Suvarnabhumi Airport the sole commercial airport to pave the way for becoming a regional aviation hub.

Speaking at a workshop yesterday entitled "Rehabilitation and Development of Thailand's Air Transport into a Regional Aviation Hub", Chokchai Panyayong, vice president for project development at Thai Airways International (THAI), said his airline agreed with the government's single-airport policy, because it would help airline operators reduce costs.

He said THAI now flew out of both Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang airports, which entailed higher operational costs for the company.

The higher costs are transferred to passengers.

Meanwhile, Airline Operators Committee chairman Chaiwat Nawarat said to restore confidence in the airport, the government must prosecute those responsible for closing it late last November.

"All groups threatening to close the airport in the future must be dealt with in accordance with the law," he said.

Chaiwat said air bookings had dropped 30 per cent for incoming passengers as a result of the 10-day closure of both of Bangkok's airports.

Passenger numbers, especially from Japan and South Korea, have not yet rebounded.

The workshop was presided over by Transport Minister Sophon Saram at Suvarnabhumi Airport. Airline operators, related aviation businesses and state agencies participated.

Sophon said Airports of Thailand would review comments regarding improvements in its aviation services.

He expects that to take about a month and will call another meeting afterwards.