Don Mueang International Airport is a key hub for air travel in Bangkok, Thailand. It’s one of the oldest airports in Asia and has a rich history dating back to the 1920s. The airport serves as a major centre for low-cost carriers, handling millions of passengers each year.
Located in northern Bangkok, Don Mueang Airport (DMK) is managed by Airports of Thailand. It has two terminals – one for domestic flights and another for international travel. The airport code VTBD is used by pilots and air traffic controllers.
Don Mueang shares its runways with the Royal Thai Air Force. This unique setup means travellers might spot military aircraft alongside commercial planes. The airport also has an unusual feature – a golf course between its two runways.
History and Overview
Don Mueang International Airport has a long and rich history in Thailand’s aviation industry. It has undergone significant changes over the years to meet growing travel demands.
Historical Significance
Don Mueang Airport opened in March 1914 as Thailand’s second airfield. It started commercial flights in 1924, with KLM being the first airline to operate there. The airport became a key hub for both civilian and military use. During World War II, it served as a base for the Royal Thai Air Force.
In the following decades, Don Mueang grew into Bangkok’s main international gateway. It handled millions of passengers yearly and connected Thailand to destinations worldwide. The airport’s importance peaked in the late 20th and early 21st centuries.
Renovation and Expansion
Don Mueang closed in 2006 when the new Suvarnabhumi Airport opened. However, it reopened in 2007 for domestic flights. This led to major renovations to modernize the facilities.
The airport expanded its capacity and improved its services. New terminals were built, and old ones were updated. These changes helped Don Mueang handle more low-cost carriers and regional flights.
Today, Don Mueang serves as Bangkok’s second international airport. It focuses on budget airlines and shorter routes. The renovations have allowed it to remain a vital part of Thailand’s air transport system.
Airport Infrastructure
Don Mueang International Airport has multiple terminals to handle passenger traffic. The airport continues to upgrade its facilities to meet growing demand.
Terminal 1
Terminal 1 serves international flights at Don Mueang. It has 124 check-in counters to process passengers efficiently. The terminal handles government and charter flights.
Terminal 1 offers key amenities for travellers. These include shops, restaurants, currency exchange, and lounges. Passengers can find 20 shops and 46 food outlets throughout the terminal.
Free Wi-Fi keeps passengers connected while waiting for flights. The terminal layout aims to move people smoothly from check-in to gates.
Terminal 2
Terminal 2 focuses on domestic flights within Thailand. It contains 196 check-in counters to manage the high volume of local travellers.
Like Terminal 1, Terminal 2 provides essential services. Passengers have access to ATMs, currency exchange, and car rentals. The terminal houses 7 airline lounges for premium travellers.
Terminal 2 connects to ground transportation options. Buses and taxis are readily available outside the arrivals area.
Future Plans for Terminal 3
Don Mueang has plans to expand with a new Terminal 3. This project aims to increase the airport’s capacity from 30 million to 40 million passengers per year.
The expansion includes building a new international terminal. Existing facilities will also see upgrades and renovations.
This major investment of 36 billion baht shows Thailand’s commitment to improving air travel infrastructure. The new terminal will help Don Mueang handle growing passenger numbers in the coming years.
Airlines and Destinations
Don Mueang International Airport serves as a hub for many airlines, offering a wide range of domestic and international flights. The airport is particularly known for its focus on low-cost carriers, providing affordable travel options to various destinations.
Domestic Flights
Don Mueang Airport connects to 100 non-stop destinations within Thailand. Popular routes include flights to Chiang Mai, Phuket, and Hat Yai. Nok Air, a major domestic carrier, operates numerous routes from this airport. Thai Smile, a subsidiary of Thai Airways, also offers domestic flights from Don Mueang.
Thai Lion Air is another key player in the domestic market, providing frequent services to various Thai cities. These airlines use a mix of narrow-body aircraft like Boeing 737s and Airbus A320s for their domestic operations.
International Flights
The airport handles international flights to various Asian destinations. Countries served include China, Japan, South Korea, and several Southeast Asian nations. Thai AirAsia is a major operator of international routes from Don Mueang.
Other airlines flying international routes include R Airlines and Orient Thai. Popular international destinations from Don Mueang include Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, and Hong Kong. The airport also serves as a gateway to emerging markets in the region, with flights to secondary cities in neighbouring countries.
Low-Cost Carriers
Don Mueang Airport is a key hub for low-cost carriers in Southeast Asia. Thai AirAsia, one of the largest budget airlines in the region, has its main base here. The airline offers both domestic and international flights at competitive prices.
Nok Air, another prominent low-cost carrier, uses Don Mueang as its primary hub. Thai Lion Air also operates a significant number of budget flights from this airport. These carriers typically use single-class seating configurations to maximize capacity and keep fares low.
The focus on low-cost carriers has made Don Mueang Airport an important centre for affordable air travel in the region. This has helped boost tourism and business travel to and from Bangkok.
Transportation and Accessibility
Don Mueang International Airport offers many ways to get to and from the city. Travelers can choose from buses, taxis, and rental cars. The airport also has parking for those who drive.
Public Transportation
Buses connect Don Mueang Airport to Bangkok. Airport Bus A1 goes to Mo Chit BTS and Chatuchak Park MRT stations. It costs 30 THB. Bus A2 travels to Victory Monument for the same price.
For longer trips, A3 and A4 buses cost 50 THB. A3 goes to Lumpini Park, while A4 heads to Khao San Road. These buses make several stops along the way.
The airport is about 24 km north of downtown Bangkok. Public transport takes longer but costs less than other options.
Car Rentals and Taxis
Travelers can rent cars at Don Mueang Airport. Many well-known companies have desks in the arrivals area. Renting a car gives visitors the freedom to explore on their own schedule.
Taxis are a quick way to reach the city. They’re easy to find outside the terminals. Passengers should make sure the driver uses the meter. The trip to central Bangkok takes about 30 minutes without traffic.
For a cheaper option, visitors can use ride-hailing apps. These often cost less than regular taxis.
Parking Facilities
Don Mueang Airport has parking lots for short and long-term stays. The lots are near both terminals. Short-term parking is good for picking up or dropping off passengers.
Long-term parking serves those leaving their cars while travelling. Rates vary based on how long the car stays. The lots have security to keep vehicles safe.
For convenience, there’s a shuttle bus between the parking areas and terminals. This helps passengers with luggage or long walks.
Airport Services and Amenities
Don Mueang International Airport offers many services to make travel easier. Passengers can find places to eat, shop, and take care of money needs. The airport also has extra amenities for comfort and convenience.
Currency Exchange and ATMs
ATMs and currency exchange counters are located throughout the airport terminals. Travellers can get Thai baht or exchange foreign money. ATMs are available 24/7 for cash withdrawals. Currency exchange offices have longer hours than most airport shops.
Several major Thai banks have branches at Don Mueang. These include Bangkok Bank, Kasikorn Bank, and Siam Commercial Bank. Exchange rates are competitive with downtown Bangkok. It’s smart to check rates before changing large amounts.
Dining and Shopping
Don Mueang has many food options. Quick-service restaurants and cafes are in both terminals. Choices include Thai dishes, international fast food, and coffee shops. Some places are open 24 hours for late-night flights.
For shopping, the airport has duty-free and regular retail stores. Travelers can buy souvenirs, local products, and travel essentials. Beauty items, electronics, and Thai handicrafts are popular purchases. Duty-free shopping is available for international passengers.
Additional Services
Don Mueang offers extra amenities for passenger comfort. Massage services help travellers relax before flights. SIM card vendors sell local phone plans. This lets visitors get connected right away.
The airport has designated smoking zones for those who need them. These areas are clearly marked and separate from non-smoking sections.
For international arrivals, Visa on Arrival is available. Eligible travellers can get a short-stay visa at the airport. The process is usually quick but can be busy during peak times.
Wi-Fi is free throughout the airport. Charging stations for phones and laptops are easy to find. Luggage storage is available for those with long layovers.
Airport Operations
Don Mueang International Airport handles a large volume of flights and passengers daily. The airport’s operations focus on safety, efficiency, and customer service.
Commercial Flight Operations
Don Mueang International Airport serves as a major hub for low-cost carriers in Thailand. It handles both domestic and international flights.
The airport has two main terminals. Terminal 1 is for international flights, while Terminal 2 handles domestic flights.
Airlines operating at Don Mueang include Thai AirAsia, Nok Air, and Thai Lion Air. These carriers offer flights to various destinations within Thailand and across Southeast Asia.
Check-in counters are organized by the airline. Passengers can find their designated check-in area using the airport’s clear signage and information boards.
Safety and Security
Don Mueang Airport prioritizes passenger safety and security. Security checkpoints are located at terminal entrances and before boarding gates.
All passengers and luggage undergo thorough screening. This includes x-ray scanning of carry-on bags and walk-through metal detectors for travellers.
The airport employs trained security personnel to monitor operations. They conduct regular patrols throughout the terminals and surrounding areas.
Emergency response teams are on standby 24/7. They are equipped to handle various situations, from medical emergencies to potential security threats.
Air Traffic Control
The air traffic control tower at Don Mueang Airport manages all flight operations. Controllers guide aircraft during takeoff, landing, and ground movements.
Advanced radar systems help monitor air traffic. This ensures safe separation between aircraft in the sky and on the ground.
Weather monitoring equipment provides real-time data to controllers and pilots. This information is crucial for safe flight operations, especially during adverse weather conditions.
The airport’s runway system can handle multiple aircraft simultaneously. This efficient setup helps reduce delays and keeps flights running on schedule.
Arrivals and Departures
Don Mueang International Airport handles a mix of domestic and international flights. Passengers can check flight status and find key information about arrivals, departures, and immigration procedures.
Domestic and International Arrivals
Don Mueang Airport serves both domestic and international flights. The flight status for arrivals is updated in real time. Domestic arrivals typically use Terminal 2, while international arrivals use Terminal 1.
Domestic flights come from major Thai cities like Chiang Mai, Phuket, and Hat Yai. International arrivals include flights from nearby countries such as Malaysia, Singapore, and Indonesia.
After landing, passengers follow signs to baggage claim. Domestic travellers can exit the airport directly after collecting their bags.
Check-In and Immigration
For departures, Don Mueang Airport recommends arriving early. Check-in times vary by airline but are usually 2-3 hours before flight time for international trips.
Check-in counters are located on the 3rd floor of both terminals. Self-service kiosks are available for some airlines, speeding up the process.
International passengers must clear immigration after check-in. The immigration area is on the 3rd floor of Terminal 1. Travellers should have their passports and completed arrival cards ready.
Upon arrival, international visitors go through passport control. Immigration desks are located before baggage claim. Lines can be long during peak hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
Don Mueang International Airport offers various transportation options and facilities for travellers. Here are answers to common questions about getting to and from the airport, available amenities, and flight information.
How can I travel from Don Mueang International Airport to Suvarnabhumi Airport?
Travelers can take a shuttle bus between Don Mueang and Suvarnabhumi airports. The service runs every 30 minutes from 5:00 AM to midnight.
Taxis and private car services are also available for a more direct route. The journey takes about 1 hour, depending on traffic.
What are the transportation options from Don Mueang International Airport to Bangkok city centre?
Several transportation options connect Don Mueang Airport to Bangkok’s city centre. Public buses are the most affordable choice, with air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned options available.
Taxis are readily accessible at designated stands outside the terminal. The Airport Rail Link offers a quick 30-minute ride to the city.
What facilities are available for passengers at Don Mueang International Airport’s arrival section?
The arrival section at Don Mueang Airport provides essential services for travellers. Currency exchange counters and ATMs are available for financial needs.
Information desks assist with queries, while car rental services offer transportation options. Shops and cafes cater to immediate food and beverage needs.
Can you provide information on the accommodation options inside Don Mueang International Airport for overnight stays?
Don Mueang Airport does not have hotels inside the terminal buildings. However, several lounges in Terminals 1 and 2 offer comfortable seating and amenities for short rests.
For overnight stays, travellers can find hotels near the airport, many offering shuttle services.
Is there a difference in flight options between Don Mueang International Airport and Suvarnabhumi Airport?
Don Mueang Airport primarily serves low-cost carriers and domestic flights. It handles flights from airlines like AirAsia, Nok Air, and Thai Lion Air.
Suvarnabhumi Airport focuses on international flights and full-service airlines. It hosts most major international carriers serving Bangkok.
Where can I find the flight schedules for departures from Don Mueang International Airport?
Flight schedules for Don Mueang Airport are available on the official airport website. Many airlines also provide their schedules on their own websites.
Real-time departure information is displayed on screens throughout the terminal buildings. Mobile apps for specific airlines often offer up-to-date flight status details.
