Suvarnabhumi Airport gets passing grade in the first week

Suvarnabhumi Airport has received a passing grade in its first week of operation, but still has a long way to go before it can compete with world-class airports in Hong Kong and Singapore, international airline managers say.

Many executives were poised for the worst when the 125-billion-baht airport opened on September 28, expecting a host of baggage system malfunctions and computer glitches. But the problems turned out to be largely similar to those that airlines faced at the old Bangkok International Airport (Don Muang) right up until its closure.

"Before the opening, we were so worried about problems, particularly with the baggage system," said Seiichi Iwasaki, the Southeast Asia regional manager for Japan Airlines. "But it turned out to be okay, though there are still small problems."

Most complaints have dealt with the airport's handling of cargo, which frustrated businesses that had goods, including perishable items, stranded for days. Unclear documentation requirements, insufficient cargo space, processing delays and the lack of experienced staff all contributed to the disorder.

Even so, many airline executives rated Suvarnabhumi's terminal and operation about six or seven on a scale of 10. The ratings are consistent with scores that Airports of Thailand Plc (AoT), which runs the airport, has given itself.

"From CX's (Cathay Pacific) perspective the airport has worked very well for a newly opened facility, particularly in light of the various issues that have plagued Suvarnabhumi over the past few months," said Patrick Yeung, general manager of Cathay Pacific for Southeast Asia.

"In terms of living up to expectations, from the airport services point of view the answer is yes. I would rate Suvarnabhumi a seven out of 10."

Problems with the terminal cited by airline managers included poor and insufficient signage, dirty and inadequatebathroom facilities, a lack of moving walkways, late arrival of baggage and overall terminal cleanliness.

While fixing the cargo handling problems is crucial, airline executives said the other concerns could be taken care of in time. "The airport has performed much better than expected," said Udom Tantiprasongchai, chief executive officer of Orient Thai Airlines and One-Two-Go Airlines. He credited the high dedication and team spirit among all concerned parties, as well as efficient contingency plans.

"Of course, there were rattles here and there, but there was considerable co-operation and determination to deal with the problems," Mr Udom said.