An Airports of Thailand spokesperson says 14,220 flights, carrying 2.37 million passengers, are expected at 6 Thai airports during the Songkran holiday. AOT currently manages Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, Chiang Mai, Mae Fah Luang (Chiang Rai), Phuket, and Hat Yai airports.
“The 14,220 includes 7,500 international and 6,720 domestic flights. Of the 2.37 million passengers, 1.37 million will be foreigners and 1 million domestic passengers.”
This year, the number of flights is 59.6% higher than last year, while passenger numbers are up 137.5% year on year. However, the total number of flights is still 18.5% lower than the 17,440 flights that operated during the pre-pandemic Songkran of 2019.
Nation Thailand reports that additional personnel and facilities have been prepared at each of the 6 airports ahead of the tourist surge. The airports have also been decorated with a Songkran theme, including areas where passengers can pay their respects to a Buddha figure.
Free parking is being offered in zone C of Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport, starting just after midnight on April 12 and ending just before midnight on April 18. A free shuttle bus will transfer passengers between the parking areas and the terminal, running every 15 minutes.
Meanwhile, passengers are being advised to download the “Sawasdee by AOT” app for further assistance. The app will allow them to check the status of their flight, as well as checking the length of time needed for checking in and security and immigration processing.
International passengers are advised to check in at least 3 hours before their flight, with domestic passengers advised to check in 2 hours before.
SOURCE: Nation Thailand
