Source: Thai Asean News Network
BANGKOK, August 23rd, 2010
Near Bkk Thailand Airport Rail Link begins full commercial operations
The Airport Link connecting downtown Bangkok and Suvarnabhumi airport began its first day of commercial services on Monday, with trains now running from 6am to midnight. Transport Minister Sohpon Zarum said the Airport Link can carry up to 50,000 passengers a day, generating revenue of one million baht a day. "I believe this rail link will help ease traffic, lower pollution and make it easier for the public," Mr Sohpon said.
The Airport Link's City Line will run every 15 minutes and the Express Line every 30 minutes. Both lines operate from 6am to midnight. The trains have a maximum speed of 160 kilometres per hour. The City Line will make eight stops across the capital, starting at Phaya Thai, before heading to the airport. The trains take 30 minutes from Phaya Thai to Suvarnabhumi. Passengers using the City Line pay a flat rate of 15 baht for a trip during the promotion period. Fares will range from 15 baht to 45 baht, depending on the distance travelled, after Jan 1, 2011.