Thailand has launched a public relations campaign to talk up its new Bangkok airport, as questions remain over when exactly the hub facility will open.
The new airport had its first ceremonial test flights at the end of September on the day it was due to have opened for full operations.
Prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra was on the first flight. Several years ago he demanded that New Bangkok International airport, known as Suvarnabhumi airport, be ready for full operations by now. However, many in the industry have long said the target could not be met and earlier this year the government acknowledged the opening would be delayed.
The latest target is around mid-2006, but Thaksin acknowledges it may slip to October and many believe it will not open until late 2006 or early 2007. Delays have plagued the project and the completion of key facilities has come decades after planning began.
Source: Airline Business
