Business and first-class travelers arriving at Bangkok’s bustling Suvarnabhumi Airport can now once again enjoy fast-track service, but they will need to know exactly where to go, as clear signage is lacking.
As reported by Executive Traveller last week, the airport had recently closed its dedicated Fast Track lane, directing premium passengers to the same lengthy lines as everyone else.
After reaching out to Airports of Thailand (AOT), which operates Suvarnabhumi Airport, we are pleased to share that this decision has been reversed, at least temporarily.
Although the Fast Track lane itself does not seem to be returning, AOT has announced that first-class and business-class passengers can now utilize the Priority lane, which is typically reserved for elderly travelers (over 70), disabled individuals, and pregnant passengers. In a somewhat confusing explanation, AOT stated that the original decision aimed to reduce congestion in the fast-track areas.
These areas are now designated for a wide range of travelers, including diplomatic passport holders, those needing special assistance, infants, pregnant individuals, APEC Business Travel Card holders, as well as holders of Smart Visas, Long Stay and Thailand Privilege Cards, along with monks, elderly passengers, and crew members.
This sounds more like a recipe for a Slow Track instead of a Fast Track lane. According to AOT’s statement, “First and business class passengers are encouraged to use passport control Zones 1 and 3 upon arrival, which have priority lanes provided by Immigration Division 2 to enhance convenience.”
“We have confirmed with Immigration Division 2 that first and business class passengers are currently allowed to use the priority lanes.”
While AOT did not specify what Zones 1 and 3 refer to, the organization has provided a series of photos to help travelers navigate upon arrival at immigration in those zones. However, there appears to be no signage directing first and business class passengers to the Priority lane or indicating their eligibility to join the line alongside those with wheelchairs, pregnant women, and the elderly.
We can only hope that the immigration staff have also been informed that premium passengers are entitled to use the Priority lane.
If you are traveling through BKK in the coming weeks, please share your experience with us!
