27-11-2024 (BANGKOK) Thailand’s main airport operator has unveiled plans for a substantial compensation package worth 12 billion baht for residents affected by noise pollution from Suvarnabhumi Airport’s recently opened third runway.
The announcement follows crucial talks between Airports of Thailand (AoT), the Transport Ministry, and Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) officials, addressing mounting concerns from local communities about increased aircraft noise levels since the runway’s inauguration.
Transport Ministry deputy spokesman Kittiphon Ruayfuphan detailed a three-tier compensation framework designed to address varying circumstances among affected residents. The scheme distinguishes between legally entitled residents, those with problematic land documentation, and individuals requiring additional verification of their claims.
“We’re implementing a fair and legally sound compensation structure,” Ruayfuphan explained. “Residents with clear property rights will receive payments once rates are finalised, while those facing documentation issues will receive assistance in regularising their status.”
The pioneering aspect of the scheme extends to residents living near the runway without land ownership, provided the Pollution Control Department confirms genuine noise impact through comprehensive surveying.
BMA council chairman Surajit Phongsingwitthaya, who has been instrumental in channelling resident complaints, indicated that initial compensation payments are expected to commence in early 2024. “We’re expediting petition reviews while ensuring thorough vetting for maximum fairness,” he stated.
The new runway, stretching four kilometres in length and 60 metres in width, runs parallel to the airport’s original runway on its western flank. This expansion has significantly boosted Suvarnabhumi’s operational capacity from 68 to 94 hourly aircraft movements, primarily serving arriving flights.
