Nearly half a million fewer tourists than expected have shown up since the end of November.
Believed to have been kept away by news of political instability and violent street clashes, Thailand’s fall in arrivals is being keenly felt at Bangkok’s two international airports during what is usually the travel high season.
Suvarnabhumi and Don Muang airports usually see their biggest gains during this quarter, but now seem unlikely to meet their expectations of 6 percent growth over year last.
At Suvarnabhumi, 140,000 passengers have passed through each day from Oct. 28 through Dec. 12, which is still an increase, but of only 2 percent. Growth at Don Muang reached only 1 percent, compared to the forecast of 8 percent, with about 15,000 daily travelers during the same period.
“We expected foreign passengers would rise by at least 6 percent in this winter flight schedule, which is the high season,” said Rawewan Netrakavesna, Suvarnabhumi’s general manager.
At least 30 countries have warned their citizens about visiting Thailand.
Officials also cite a decline in Chinese tourists due to increased regulation of low-cost tours.
The explosion of Chinese tourism in recent years has become an important source of arrivals – and tourist dollars – in the kingdom.
Finally there’s also been a decline in charter flights, another income source for for Don Muang, by 30 percent, while its chief said domestic-passenger travel is holding, Bangkok Post reported.
Related:
Sad buckets: Highest-ever tourist arrivals soured by unrest
Suvarnabhumi to open special airport court for foreigners on Monday
Suvarnabhumi unveils posh new potties with interactive technology
Ceremony planned to thank evil spirits at Suvarnabhumi
