Free Parking at Four Major Airports During Songkran Festival
BANGKOK, Thailand – In anticipation of a surge in holiday travelers, Airports of Thailand Plc (AoT) has announced free parking at four major airports during the Songkran festival. The move aims to ease congestion and accommodate over 3 million passengers, marking a 20% increase from last year.
Airports Offering Free Parking
Travelers flying from the following airports can park for free from April 12 at 12:01 a.m. to April 16 at midnight:
- Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK)
- Don Mueang Airport (DMK)
- Chiang Mai Airport (CNX)
- Phuket Airport (HKT)
Government Calls for Transportation Readiness
Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit has urged all transport agencies to enhance safety and efficiency across all modes of travel—land, rail, water, and air—to accommodate the expected surge between April 11-17.
Increased Air Travel During Songkran
AoT President Kerati Kijmanawat revealed that six airports under AoT’s management—including Mae Fah Luang Chiang Rai (CEI) and Hat Yai (HDY)—are coordinating with airlines and airport agencies to improve check-in efficiency and reduce congestion.
Projected Travel Figures:
- Total passengers: Over 3 million
- International travelers: 1.86 million (up 21% from last year)
- Domestic travelers: 1.14 million (up 20%)
- Total flights: 18,030 (a 20.7% increase)
- International flights: 10,442
- Domestic flights: 7,588
The free parking initiative is expected to help ease travel burdens for those flying during the Thai New Year holiday, offering greater convenience amid the festive rush.