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Published on September 4, 2007

The poll was conducted by Siam Technology College's Siam Techno Poll Research Centre. It coincided with a forum at the college about the year-old airport attended by about 800 participants.

The forum was told by executives from 10 domestic and international airlines based in Bangkok that the airport was in danger of falling behind, because of continuing problems. "The damaged runways and taxiways cause stress to both pilots and passengers," said Dr Polkrit Tantiyanukool, the research centre's assistant director.

Commenting on the poll's findings, Suvarnabhumi Airport general manager Serirat Prasutanond said many of the improvements proposed during the college's forum, including additional seating, provision of WiFi services, more and cheaper food selections at restaurants and better security, would be discussed at the airport's next board meeting this month.

Respondents to the poll admitted the airport was more convenient and aesthetically more appealing than its predecessor and that improvements had been made since its opening. They also blamed the country's unstable political climate for lower tourist arrivals.

"We're addressing problems here that have occurred since the opening, be they inadequate toilets, lighting, air-conditioning and signage or illegal guides and taxis.

"Although there were still complaints after 10 months, the number had decreased from three digits to two," Serirat said.

The company intends to see Suvarnabhumi listed among the world's top 20 airports next year and among the top 10 in 2009.

He said to help achieve those rankings, six working teams had been set up to improve key areas: the security-management system, airport facilities and services, collaboration with airlines and government bodies, commercial airport property management, service-mindedness and the airport environment.

Suchat Sritama

 The Nation