AirAsia ready to transfer flight operations to Don Mueang Airport from 01-Oct-2012

AirAsia affirmed (25-Jun-2012) its readiness to transfer all operations to Bangkok Don Mueang International Airport by 01-Oct-2012. The airline assured Don Mueang will be able to accommodate its growing fleet with Thai AirAsia CEO Tassapon Bijleveld stating AirAsia's decision to return to Don Mueang was carefully assessed as he noted the capabilities of Don Mueang Airport are in line with AirAsia's own growth plan. The carrier also noted Airports of Thailand Company's (AoT) assistance measures have meant AirAsia could "better manage its cost more effectively and provide passengers with improved service".

As previously reported, the Cabinet on 19-Jun-2012, resolved to approve the hub airport status of Bangkok Suvarnabhumi International Airport operating full service and connecting flights to be promoted as the regional hub while Don Mueang serving LCCs and/or point-to-point domestic and international flights on a voluntary basis, to make the best use of the two airports. As a result, AoT has prepared an operation plan for partial move of air traffic volume from Suvarnabhumi Airport to Don Mueang by additionally improving concerned areas and physical facilities to be ready by Jul-2012. Airlines can operate their flights at Don Mueang in a soft opening during Aug/Sep-2012 and it is expected Don Mueang can start full-scale service by Oct-2012. AoT has approved discounts on airport fees as it seek to attract airlines to the airport. From 01-Aug-2012 to 30-Sep-2012, when runways at Bangkok Suvarnabhumi will be repaired, 95% discounts will be available for take-off, landing and hangar fees at Don Mueang. Discounts will be 30% from 01-Oct-2012 to 30-Sep-2013; 20% from 01-Oct-2013 to 30-Sep-2014; and 10% from 01-Oct-2014 to 30-Sep-2015. AoT will determine exact discounts for area rents and fees on passenger boarding bridges, check-in counters, indoor services and flight announcements in the coming week. [more - original PR - AirAsia]