Suvarnabhumi - Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi New Bangkok International Airport (BKK))

Member Name: askessing

Product:	Suvarnabhumi New Bangkok International Airport (BKK)
Date:	25/05/08 (23 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Large and airy airport; good service; good food options

Disadvantages: squashed arrivals gate - difficult to find those meeting you

Suvarnabhumi airport opened November 2006 - later than expected. Whilst it hasn't been without it's own reasons for negative publicity ( talk about the runway cracking and cheaper than cheap materials used to lay it) - it is without a doubt an airport which lives up to current expectation. It's an innovative design which proves to be a point of interest and distraction upon arrival. Orientation is not difficult due to clear signposting. Checking in and passport control are equally efficient due to the high number of polite staff. A real high point of the airport are the range of eateries. The Sky Lounge amongst others is clean, modern and full of good value fare. As a UK citizen used to the noise, grime and over-crowding of Gatwick and Heathrow - Suvarnabhumi is a world away. The only negative point I have to make is the organisation of the arrivals gates. There is little room to meet and greet those coming through and if it is a busy time, it can be difficult to get to the desired gate and to be seen. Clear sign-posts to metre taxis and other services do help the first-timer however. And those re-visiting since the Don Meung days will be presently surprised at the light and airy airport with fast service and only 20 minutes out of town. The Sky Train station should be finished by the end of the year.

Summary: one of the top modern airports today