Thai AirAsia has confirmed that it will transfer all its operations in Bangkok to Don Mueang International Airport by 1 October.
The move from Suvarnabhumi airport has been "carefully assessed" and Don Mueang's capabilities are in line with the carrier's growth plans. Assistance measures provided by operator Airports of Thailand (AOT) also means that the carrier could manage its costs more effectively, says its chief executive Tassapon Bijleveled.
"The uncongested Don Mueang airport is sure to prove a benefit to AirAsia when it boosts its fleet of Airbus A320s to a total of 48 and welcomes more customers," he adds.
Thai AirAsia's decision comes after the Thai cabinet last week approved a plan to develop and fully re-open Don Mueang airport to ease congestion at Suvarnabhumi. Under the development plan, AOT will invest Bt1.6 billion ($50.3 million) to improve runways and various airport facilities.
With the changes, Suvarnabhumi will remain the hub airport for full service and connecting flights while Don Mueang will service low-cost carriers on domestic and point-to-point international routes, optimising the use of both airports.