Bangkok airport strives to repair image

Friday, 18th September 2009

The Suvarnabhumi Airport, opened as recently as in 2006, has already been plagued with scandals, from complaints of rogue baggage handlers to unscrupulous taxi drivers.

A major overhaul is now underway, as airport authorities are trying to clean up the airport's international image. Officials hope to put the scandals behind and improve facilities with a view to becoming one of the world's top ten airports.

The overhaul mainly addresses passenger complaints recorded since the airport began operations in 2006. Baggage handlers at the airport are now required to report to work with uniforms that have their pockets sewn tightly shut.

Nirandra Theeranartsin, Suvarnabhumi's general manager says baggage handlers now come to work with nothing but the clothes on their bodies. They carry no mobile phones, wallets, or any other items- and leave in exactly the same fashion.

A crackdown on illegal taxi touts and unlicensed tour guides has begun. Over 1,200 arrests have already been made, although the Airports Authority of Thailand (AOT) does say this is a misleading figure, as many of the arrested are repeat offenders.

Authorities say the fine of 1,000 baht levied on illegal touts is not strong enough a deterrent.

The Prime Minister of Thailand, Abhisit Vejajiva has instructed that tourists accused to stealing must from now onwards be handled "transparently". Recent claims by European tourists that they were extorted by local police after being falsely accused of theft at duty-free stores has led to an international outcry.

The airport is also installing free Wi-Fi by the end of September, and metal seats in departure areas will receive padding.

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