Thailand suffers due to political instability and European airspace closure

Airports of Thailand (AoT) stated passenger numbers at its six airports have been down in Apr-2010 due to political unrest and the recent closure of European airspace (Wall Street Journal, 27-Apr-2010). However, the company is confident a 27% rise in passenger numbers in the six months ended 31-Mar-2010, to 31.8 million, will help it achieve its growth target of 10% for FY2009-10. The company expects passenger numbers at Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport to rise from 37 million in FY2008-09 to up to 44 million this year. The airport handled 23.6 million passengers in 1H2009-10. AoT added the strong 1H2009-10 results have meant it is unlikely to report a full-year loss.