Bangkok--Jan 13--eTurboNews
The opening for Thailand's new US$3.7 billion Suvarnabhumi Airport has been rescheduled for the end of June 2006. It is also yet to be certified by the world civil aviation body.
"The airport could be opened in the next 180 days, or by end of June 2006," airport general manager Somchai Sawasdeepn said. "Most construction work are finished except for airline facilities, including lounges and offices. Airlines have been told operations will start in June 2006."
The airport, which is yet to be certified by the world civil aviation body, was first scheduled to open in 1990, then in 2000. It also missed its scheduled opening in September 2005 over airline lounge designs. The high-speed train line linking it to the city may take another two years to be completed.
Aviation officials are still doubting the June opening date can be met, in spite of its partial opening in September. Officials from an international aviation group say the airport and facilities needs more time for test runs.
"We are preparing for commissioning processes to make sure air traffic control and ground services will have as few problems as possible," added Sawasdeepan.
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) which represents 270 airlines says the airport lacks approval from the International Civil Aviation Organization ( ICAO) for security certification.
"Without certification from ICAO the new airport cannot be opened," said Chitvee Leelasiri, IATA country manager. "Even the period of 180 days might be too short for commercial operations."
The new airport, whose name in the Thai language means "golden land" is situated 25 kilometers east of Bangkok. It has been designed to handle 45 million passengers per year, almost 50 percent more than the existing airport and will serve both domestic and international flights.
The delays has further put a dent in the country's attempts to rival Singapore and Malaysia to become the region's airline and travel hub.
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