Suvarnabhumi to compensate for runway impact on properties

Airports of Thailand (AOT) is set to compensate owners whose properties will be affected by the upcoming new runway at Suvarnabhumi International Airport, scheduled for completion early next year.

This announcement comes as Bangkok City Council Chairman Surajit Phongsingwitthaya revealed that the exact number of homes and buildings eligible for compensation is still being determined.

“The airport agency is currently finalising the number of residential houses and other buildings eligible for compensation after the opening of the third runway.”

Officials from the Pollution Control Department are actively measuring noise levels in the areas expected to be impacted, indicating a focus on mitigating the environmental effects of the new infrastructure.

Discussions involving multiple agencies, including AOT, the Transport Ministry, and the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, took place yesterday, November 25. These talks were prompted by inquiries from locals directed towards City Hall regarding how the compensation process will unfold.

While the details of both financial and other forms of compensation remain undisclosed, anticipation is building among the affected communities. The third runway, constructed in parallel to the first on Suvarnabhumi’s western side, boasts dimensions of four kilometres in length and 60 metres in width.

It is primarily designated for landings, with the first two runways continuing to handle takeoffs.

Originally expected to launch by the end of this year, this significant addition to the airport’s infrastructure has been postponed to early 2025, as confirmed by the council chairman. The new runway is poised to significantly enhance Suvarnabhumi Airport’s capacity, allowing it to accommodate 94 planes per hour, a notable increase from the current 68.

The expansion of Suvarnabhumi Airport’s operational capabilities marks a significant step forward in addressing the growing demands of air travel. As the compensation plans unfold, affected property owners are keenly awaiting further details on how they will be supported through this transition, reported Bangkok Post.