Suvit hears international carriers' airport complaints
International airlines have urged Airports of Thailand (AOT) and other state agencies to sort out a host of problems that need urgent attention at Suvarnabhumi Airport, especially as regards security, personal expenses and toilet facilities.
More than 10 airline executives spelled out their gripes to Tourism Minister Suvit Yodmani during their tour of the new facility yesterday. Sam Lee, city station manager for Singapore Airlines, said AOT should provide more amenities for staff working at the airport, such as canteens, shuttle buses, parking lots as well as security. "Many employees are going to work at night. They need safety while travelling," he said, adding that workers are also suffering from higher living costs since they moved out to the new airport. Sarathool Monthienvichienchai, general manager for Thailand, Burma, Vietnam and Nepal at Northwest Airlines, said the public areas were filthy despite being looked after at all times. "I have noticed all the dirty places, from immigration to the gates, rest rooms and parking areas," he said. Also, the number of restrooms cannot keep up with demand. The lack of cleanliness at Suvarnabhumi is in stark contrast with its spick-and-span rivals in Singapore and Hong Kong, he added. Patrick Yueng, regional manager of Cathay Pacific Airways, said the distance between all the gates and immigration made for a long trek for passengers. This might inconvenience travellers. Having one terminal handling both domestic and international flights makes it difficult to find gates and catch connecting flights. Chaiwat Jaiyavat, station manager for Austrian Airlines, said AOT must correct its signs and spelling of places and areas not only at the airport, but also along the way in and out of the airport. "This problem could make tourists confused and get lost," he said. An executive of Lufthansa Airlines said the airport must prepare more aircraft parking aprons, particularly for the super-jumbos that will be used in the near future. An executive of China Airlines said city buses should reduce fares between the airport and downtown to help staff with commuting costs. Suvit said the ministry would work with AOT to solve these problems within two weeks. "One thing we can do now is add 300 more toilets at the new airport." Suvit is to visit Europe soon to promote tourism and the new airport.
Suchat Sritama The Nation
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