Thailand: Long wait times reported at Bangkok airports

Event

Travelers entering Bangkok through the Don Mueang International Airport (DMK) reported significant delays getting through immigration over the weekend of August 5-6. On Saturday, August 5, some foreign travelers said it took over four hours to get through the security checkpoint. Thai immigration officials announced on Sunday, August 6, that the delays were due to a shortage of staff and 48 additional officers will be stationed at DMK within the next week. Officials also said that another 300 immigration officers are expected to be recruited by the end of 2017 and will be sent to DMK and the Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK).

Context

According to the Immigration Bureau, the current staff can only check 1000 foreign passengers an hour at DMK. Over the weekend, an estimated 5000 passengers were at the airport due to delayed and overcrowded flights. Authorities also plan to use automatic gates to allow nationals from countries with a high number of visitors to avoid waiting in the regular immigration lines. According to the Immigration Bureau, Singaporean and Hong Kong nationals will be the first group allowed to use the automatic gates.

Advice

Travelers flying to Bangkok are advised to anticipate longer wait times and crowded conditions at immigration checkpoints.