AOT arranges bus service for stranded air passengers

BANGKOK, 21 May 2010 (NNT) – Airports of Thailand (AOT) PLC has arranged for bus service to assist stranded air passengers travel to and from Suvarnabhumi Airport during the curfew period set to last for three more days.

After the extension of the curfew order yesterday, many air travelers were left stranded. In response to passengers’ hardship, Suvarnabhumi Airport General Manager, Nirandra Theeranartsin stated that AOT will arrange bus service to get those stranded in and out of the airport. The specially arranged buses will be deployed on three planned routes and will run three times a day every two hours starting from 22.00 hrs. to 02.00 hrs.

The first route will run from Suvarnabhumi Airport to Asoke intersection and around the Sukhumvit area. The second route will run from the airport to Ratchadapisek, Huai Khwang and Lad Phrao and the third route will run on the highway from the airport to Silom.

Mr Nirandra noted that due to riots in Bangkok in the recent days, the number of air passengers has reportedly dwindled from 120,000-130,000 to 50,000-60,000 passengers as of 20 May 2010; a 50% loss in revenue loss for AOT. However, he asserted that the company would launch measures such as a reduction for landing fees and parking fees to assist airlines. The aid measures are currently being discussed with related agencies.