Suvarnabhumi International Airport, also known as Bangkok Airport, is one of the busiest airports in Southeast Asia, serving as a major gateway to Thailand and the rest of the region. Opened in 2006, this state-of-the-art facility has become a hub for both leisure and business travelers, offering a wide range of amenities and services to cater to the needs of its millions of passengers each year. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the history, facilities, transportation options, and more, to help you navigate your way through Aéroport international de Bangkok-Suvarnabhumi with ease.
History of Suvarnabhumi International Airport
The Need for a New Airport
Bangkok’s previous international airport, Don Muang International Airport, had become increasingly congested and unable to keep up with the growing demand for air travel in Thailand. In the late 1990s, the Thai government decided to build a new, larger airport to serve the country’s growing economy and tourism industry.
Construction and Opening
Construction on Suvarnabhumi International Airport began in 2002 and was completed in 2006. The project was a massive undertaking, with a total investment of over $4 billion. The new airport was designed to handle up to 45 million passengers per year, a significant increase from Don Muang’s capacity.
Suvarnabhumi officially opened its doors to the public on September 28, 2006, after several delays and setbacks during the construction process. The opening ceremony was attended by Thailand’s then-Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra and other government officials, marking a new era for air travel in the country.
Expansion and Growth
Since its opening, Suvarnabhumi International Airport has continued to grow and expand to meet the increasing demand for air travel. Several expansions and renovations have been carried out, including the addition of new terminals, runways, and other facilities.
Today, Suvarnabhumi handles over 60 million passengers annually, cementing its status as one of the busiest airports in the world.
Facilities at Suvarnabhumi International Airport
Suvarnabhumi Airport Terminal Map
Runways and Taxiways
Suvarnabhumi International Airport has two parallel runways, both measuring 4,000 meters (13,123 feet) in length. This allows the airport to handle a high volume of air traffic and accommodate a wide range of aircraft, from small regional jets to large wide-body airliners.
The airport also features an extensive network of taxiways, allowing for efficient aircraft movement and minimizing delays during takeoffs and landings.
Baggage Handling and Security
Suvarnabhumi International Airport has a state-of-the-art baggage handling system that can process up to 8,000 pieces of luggage per hour. The system features automated conveyor belts, sorting machines, and security screening equipment to ensure the safe and efficient handling of passengers’ belongings.
The airport also has a robust security system in place, with multiple security checkpoints, advanced screening equipment, and a team of trained security personnel to ensure the safety and security of all passengers and staff.
Amenities and Services
Suvarnabhumi Airport offers a wide range of amenities and services to cater to the needs of its passengers. These include:
- Banks and currency exchange services
- Medical services and first aid facilities
- Lost and found offices
- Prayer rooms and chapels
- Nursing rooms for mothers
- Smoking areas
- Luggage storage and lockers
- Free Wi-Fi throughout the airport
The airport also has a dedicated transit hotel, allowing passengers with long layovers or delayed flights to rest and refresh before continuing their journey.
Airlines Operating at Suvarnabhumi International Airport
Suvarnabhumi International Airport is a major hub for several airlines, both domestic and international. The airport serves as the primary base of operations for Thailand’s national carrier, Thai Airways International.
Major Airlines
In addition to Thai Airways, some of the other major airlines operating at Suvarnabhumi include:
- AirAsia (both domestic and international flights)
- Cathay Pacific
- Émirats
- Etihad Airways
- EVA Air
- Japan Airlines
- Korean Air
- Compagnies aériennes de Singapour
- Qatar Airways
These airlines offer a wide range of direct and connecting flights to destinations across Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and beyond.
Transporteurs à faible coût
Suvarnabhumi International Airport also serves as a hub for several low-cost carriers, catering to the growing demand for affordable air travel. Some of the prominent low-cost airlines operating at the airport include:
- Air Asie
- Assez d'air
- Thai AirAsia
- Thai Lion Air
- Thai Vietjet Air
These airlines offer a more budget-friendly option for passengers, often with a more basic range of services and amenities compared to the full-service carriers.
Cargo Operations
In addition to passenger flights, Suvarnabhumi International Airport also handles a significant volume of cargo operations. The airport has dedicated cargo terminals and facilities to cater to the needs of freight forwarders and logistics companies.
Major cargo airlines operating at Suvarnabhumi include:
- FedEx Express
- DHL Express
- UPS Airlines
- Korean Air Cargo
- Cathay Pacific Cargo
The airport’s strategic location and modern infrastructure make it an important hub for air cargo transportation in the region.
Transportation Options to and from Suvarnabhumi International Airport
Suvarnabhumi International Airport is well-connected to the rest of Bangkok and the surrounding areas, with a variety of transportation options available for travelers.
Public Transportation
- Airport Rail Link: The Airport Rail Link is a dedicated express train service that connects the airport to the city center. The journey takes approximately 25 minutes, making it a convenient and efficient option for reaching the city.
- Buses: Several public bus routes, both local and long-distance, serve Suvarnabhumi International Airport, providing connections to various parts of Bangkok and beyond.
- Taxis: Metered taxis are readily available at the airport’s designated taxi stands, offering a comfortable and reliable way to reach your destination.
Private Transportation
- Ridesharing Services: Apps like Grab and Uber offer ridesharing services from Suvarnabhumi International Airport, providing a convenient door-to-door transportation option.
- Private Transfers: Many hotels and tour operators offer private transfer services, which can be booked in advance to ensure a hassle-free arrival or departure.
- Rental Cars: Visitors can rent cars from various agencies located within the airport, allowing them to explore Thailand at their own pace.
Connecting to Other Modes of Transport
- Trains: The Airport Rail Link provides a direct connection to the BTS Skytrain and MRT subway systems, allowing easy access to Bangkok’s extensive public transportation network.
- Buses: The airport’s bus terminals offer connections to long-distance bus services, making it possible to travel to other provinces and cities within Thailand.
Regardless of your preferred mode of transportation, Suvarnabhumi International Airport offers a range of options to ensure a smooth and convenient journey to and from the airport.
Shopping and Dining at Suvarnabhumi International Airport
Suvarnabhumi International Airport is a shopper’s and foodie’s paradise, offering a diverse range of retail and dining options to cater to the needs of its passengers.
Shopping
The airport features a wide array of shops, ranging from luxury boutiques to duty-free stores and local Thai handicraft outlets. Some of the notable shopping options include:
- Duty-Free Shops: Passengers can find a wide selection of tax-free goods, including electronics, cosmetics, liquor, and more.
- Luxury Brands: Global luxury brands, such as Chanel, Hermès, and Louis Vuitton, have a strong presence at the airport.
- Thai Handicrafts: Visitors can explore a variety of traditional Thai handicrafts, including silk products, jewelry, and home decor items.
- Electronics and Travel Accessories: Stores selling electronics, cameras, and travel-related accessories are available to cater to the needs of tech-savvy travelers.
Dining
Suvarnabhumi International Airport offers an impressive array of dining options, catering to a wide range of tastes and preferences. From local Thai cuisine to international fast food and fine dining, there’s something to satisfy every palate.
- Thai Restaurants: Passengers can indulge in authentic Thai dishes, such as pad thai, tom yum goong, and khao niaow ma muang (mango sticky rice).
- International Cuisine: The airport features a variety of international dining options, including Japanese, Korean, Chinese, and Western-style restaurants.
- Fast Food and Cafes: For a quick bite or refreshment, travelers can choose from a selection of fast-food chains, coffee shops, and casual dining establishments.
- Upscale Dining: For a more elevated dining experience, the airport boasts several high-end restaurants and lounges, offering panoramic views of the airfield.
Passenger Amenities
In addition to shopping and dining, Suvarnabhumi International Airport provides a range of amenities to enhance the passenger experience, including:
- Free Wi-Fi: Passengers can access high-speed internet throughout the airport.
- Lounges: The airport has several premium lounges, offering a comfortable space for travelers to relax and recharge.
- Spas and Wellness Centers: Passengers can indulge in spa treatments, massages, and other wellness services to rejuvenate during their journey.
- Entertainment: The airport features various entertainment options, such as movie theaters, game zones, and live music performances.
Whether you’re looking to indulge in some retail therapy, savor local or international cuisine, or simply unwind, Suvarnabhumi International Airport has everything you need to make your travel experience more enjoyable.
Lounges at Suvarnabhumi International Airport
Suvarnabhumi International Airport is home to a range of luxurious and well-equipped airport lounges, catering to the needs of premium and frequent flyers.
Thai Airways Royal Orchid Lounge
As the national carrier’s flagship lounge, the Thai Airways Royal Orchid Lounge offers a premium experience for Thai Airways’ business and first-class passengers, as well as members of the Royal Orchid Plus frequent flyer program.
The lounge features a range of amenities, including:
- Comfortable seating areas
- Buffet-style dining with a selection of Thai and international cuisine
- Beverage service, including alcoholic drinks
- Business facilities, such as workstations and meeting rooms
- Shower suites for passengers to freshen up
Other Airline-Operated Lounges
In addition to the Thai Airways lounge, Suvarnabhumi International Airport also hosts several other airline-operated lounges, including:
- Cathay Pacific Lounge
- Emirates Lounge
- Etihad Airways Lounge
- Singapore Airlines SilverKris Lounge
- Korean Air Lounge
These lounges cater to the respective airlines’ premium passengers and frequent flyers, offering a range of amenities and services similar to the Thai Airways Royal Orchid Lounge.
Plaza Premium Lounges
For passengers who do not have access to the airline-operated lounges, Suvarnabhumi International Airport also has several Plaza Premium Lounges. These independent lounges are open to all passengers, regardless of airline or class of travel, for a fee.
The Plaza Premium Lounges provide a comfortable and relaxing environment, with facilities such as:
- Comfortable seating areas
- Buffet-style dining
- Beverage service, including alcoholic drinks
- Business facilities, including workstations and meeting rooms
- Shower suites
Access to these lounges can be purchased individually or through various lounge membership programs, making them a convenient option for passengers seeking a more exclusive airport experience.
Terminal Layout of Suvarnabhumi International Airport
Suvarnabhumi International Airport has a well-designed and organized terminal layout to ensure a smooth and efficient passenger flow.
Main Terminal Building
The main terminal building at Suvarnabhumi is a massive, sprawling structure that houses both the domestic and international departures and arrivals areas. The terminal is divided into two main concourses, Concourse A and Concourse B, which are connected by an internal subway system.
Concourse A, B, C
Concourse A, B, C is dedicated to domestic flights within Thailand, as well as some regional international flights. It features a wide range of passenger amenities, including:
- Domestic check-in and baggage claim areas
- Domestic departure and arrival lounges
- Shops, restaurants, and other retail outlets
Concourse E, F, G
Concourse E, F, G is exclusively for international flights, both departures and arrivals. It offers a more extensive range of facilities and services, including:
- International check-in and baggage claim areas
- Duty-free shopping and dining options
- Premium airline lounges
- Immigration and customs processing areas
Transportation Centers
The airport’s transportation infrastructure is well-integrated into the terminal layout, with dedicated areas for:
- Airport Rail Link station
- Taxi and rideshare pickup/drop-off zones
- Long-distance bus terminals
This allows passengers to seamlessly transition between the airport and their preferred mode of transportation.
Passenger Flow
The terminal layout is designed to optimize passenger flow and minimize congestion. Departing and arriving passengers are kept separate, and clear signage and wayfinding systems guide travelers to their respective check-in, security, and immigration/customs areas.
Additionally, the airport has implemented various measures to enhance the passenger experience, such as automated bag drop systems, self-service kiosks, and dedicated fast-track lanes for premium travelers.
Overall, the terminal layout of Suvarnabhumi International Airport is a testament to the airport’s commitment to providing a world-class travel experience for its passengers.
Parking Options at Suvarnabhumi International Airport
Suvarnabhumi International Airport offers a range of parking options to accommodate the needs of its visitors and travelers.
Short-Term Parking
For quick drop-offs or pickups, the airport has several short-term parking lots located in close proximity to the terminal buildings. These lots are convenient for passengers who need to make a brief stop at the airport.
Long-Term Parking
Travelers who need to park their vehicles for an extended period can choose from the airport’s long-term parking options. These include:
- Multi-story car parks: The airport has several multi-level parking structures that offer both covered and uncovered spaces.
- Outdoor parking lots: Additional uncovered parking lots are available for those seeking more economical options.
Parking Fees and Payment
The parking fees at Suvarnabhumi International Airport are based on the duration of the stay. Rates are available on the airport’s official website, and payment can be made using cash, credit/debit cards, or via mobile payment apps.
Parking Assistance
The airport provides various services to assist passengers with their parking needs, including:
- Shuttle buses: Free shuttle buses operate between the parking lots and the terminal buildings, making it easy for travelers to transport their luggage.
- Guidance and signage: Clear signage and digital displays help drivers navigate the parking areas and find available spaces.
- Parking assistance: Airport staff are available to help passengers with any questions or issues related to parking.
Special Parking Options
In addition to the standard parking facilities, Suvarnabhumi International Airport also offers specialized parking options, such as:
- VIP parking: Reserved parking spaces for premium travelers and those requiring additional assistance.
- Motorcycle parking: Dedicated areas for those arriving on two-wheelers.
- Electric vehicle charging stations: Parking spaces with charging facilities for eco-friendly vehicles.
By providing a range of parking options, Suvarnabhumi International Airport ensures that all travelers, whether arriving by car, motorcycle, or electric vehicle, can conveniently access the airport and embark on their journeys.
Hotels near Suvarnabhumi International Airport
Suvarnabhumi International Airport is surrounded by a diverse selection of hotels, catering to the needs of both business and leisure travelers.
Airport Hotels
Directly adjacent to the airport, there are several hotels that offer the ultimate in convenience for passengers with early flights or long layovers. These airport hotels include:
- Novotel Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport
- Mercure Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport
- Ibis Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport
- Amari Don Muang Airport Bangkok
These hotels provide easy access to the terminal buildings, as well as amenities such as shuttle services, dining options, and meeting facilities.
Hotels in the Surrounding Area
Beyond the immediate airport vicinity, there are numerous hotels located within a short distance of Suvarnabhumi International Airport. These hotels offer a wider range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly to luxury properties, catering to differenttravel preferences and budgets. Some popular hotels near Suvarnabhumi International Airport include:
1. Novotel Bangkok Bangna
Located approximately 15 minutes from the airport, Novotel Bangkok Bangna offers modern and comfortable rooms, along with amenities such as a swimming pool, fitness center, and on-site dining options. The hotel is well-suited for business travelers and those looking to explore the nearby attractions in the Bangna area.
2. Miracle Suvarnabhumi Airport Hotel
Situated within a short drive from the airport, Miracle Suvarnabhumi Airport Hotel provides convenient accommodation for travelers with early or late flights. The hotel features spacious rooms, a rooftop pool, spa services, and complimentary shuttle transfers to the airport terminals.
3. Amaranth Suvarnabhumi Airport, BW Premier Collection
This upscale hotel is located in close proximity to Suvarnabhumi International Airport and offers luxurious rooms and suites, along with facilities like a rooftop bar, multiple dining options, and a spa. Ideal for both leisure and business travelers, the hotel provides a tranquil oasis amidst the airport’s bustling environment.
4. The Cottage Suvarnabhumi
For budget-conscious travelers, The Cottage Suvarnabhumi offers affordable and comfortable accommodation near the airport. The hotel provides clean and simple rooms, a restaurant serving Thai and international cuisine, and a complimentary shuttle service to and from the airport.
Transportation to and from Hotels
Most hotels near Suvarnabhumi International Airport offer shuttle services to facilitate seamless transportation for their guests. These shuttle services typically run at regular intervals throughout the day and can be arranged either in advance or upon arrival at the airport. Additionally, taxis, rideshare services, and public transportation options are readily available for travelers looking to reach their accommodation independently.
Whether seeking convenience for a short layover or a comfortable stay before or after a flight, the diverse range of hotels near Suvarnabhumi International Airport caters to the varied needs of travelers, ensuring a pleasant and restful experience during their time in Bangkok.
Conclusion
Suvarnabhumi International Airport stands as a bustling hub of aviation activity in Southeast Asia, welcoming millions of passengers each year with its modern facilities, extensive airline network, and convenient services. From its rich history and impressive terminal layout to diverse shopping and dining options, the airport prioritizes passenger comfort and satisfaction at every turn.
With a wide array of airlines operating to and from Suvarnabhumi, travelers have an abundance of choices when it comes to reaching their desired destinations. The airport’s strategic transportation connections, including the Airport Rail Link and various ground transport options, further enhance accessibility for passengers.
Shopping enthusiasts and food connoisseurs will find themselves spoiled for choice at Suvarnabhumi, with an array of retail outlets offering everything from luxury goods to local handicrafts, and a diverse selection of dining establishments serving up tantalizing cuisines from around the world.
For those seeking a moment of tranquility amidst the airport bustle, the Plaza Premium Lounges provide a sanctuary of comfort and convenience, welcoming passengers from all walks of travel life.
The terminal layout at Suvarnabhumi International Airport is designed to streamline passenger flow and optimize the overall airport experience, while the parking options cater to the diverse needs of visitors arriving by car, motorcycle, or electric vehicle.
With a plethora of hotels in the vicinity, travelers can easily find accommodation that suits their preferences, whether they prefer the convenience of airport hotels or the wider selection of properties in the surrounding area.
In conclusion, Suvarnabhumi International Airport serves as a gateway to Thailand and beyond, embodying the country’s warm hospitality and commitment to providing a world-class travel experience. Whether embarking on a new adventure or returning home, passengers passing through this vibrant airport are sure to be met with efficiency, comfort, and a touch of Thai charm.