*Last updated on: 27 May 2021

COVID-19 Safety Measures at Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport

Before you fly into Thailand's capital with BudgetAir, it's best to prepare for a few changes. Like every major international airport across the world, there area few new COVID-19 safety measures at Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport for travellers to know about. So let's explore how they work, and explain everything you need to know.

What airport measures are currently in place for travellers?

Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Thai authorities have required mandatory temperature screening for all arrivals at Suvarnabhumi Airport. Arrivals also need to provide a health certification including details of a negative Covid test at least 72 hours prior to flying. At the airport, social distancing markers provide guidance to stay apart from other travellers, sanitiser is freely available, cleaning has been stepped up, and face masks must now be worn in all public areas. Swab testing has also been added to the facilities at the airport, generally catering for those intending to stay for 14 days or less.

Do immigration or security checkpoints at Suvarnabhumi Airport have new procedures?

Yes. Every traveller must submit to temperature checks before passing through passport control and customs. Before arriving, it is also necessary to complete a health certification form. Aside from that, those with raised temperatures may need to undergo PCR testing. Everyone else can pass through as normal, although expect a few delays. And remember to take out health insurance to cover the cost of potential Covid treatment. Without it, access to Thailand may well be denied. Also please make sure to have any other required documents that may be needed for your entry and please check the latest visa and entry updates for Thailand through theThailand Embassy website prior to your departure.

Are there screening or testing facilities at the airport in Bangkok?

Since July 2020, there has been a rapid swab testing facility on-site at Suvarnabhumi International Airport. This was created following a total ban on international arrivals, and aims to allow business or other professional travellers to organise stays lasting two weeks or less. Tests are usually turned around in 90 minutes, but be aware that a fee will apply.

What are the social distancing and face covering policies at Suvarnabhumi Airport?

Social distancing has become a familiar aspect of international air travel, and Suvarnabhumi International Airport is no exception. The airport has added clear social distancing markers to ensure that queues are safe, and staff will be on hand to enforce those distances if required. Face masks must be worn at all times when inside the terminals, and passengers are also encouraged to use the hand sanitiser, which is available free of charge across the site.

Does the airport have a clinic?

There are two medical centers at Suvarnabhumi Airport. One can be found on the First Floor or the East Terminal and is open from Monday to Friday between 8:00 am and 5:00 pm. The second clinic can be found on Bridge Concourse D and is open 24/7. Both provide free medical assistance for first aid emergencies, although they do not provide Covid testing.

How often is Suvarnabhumi Airport being cleaned during the COVID-19 pandemic?

Thai Airways and the local airport operators were very quick to respond to the initial Covid outbreak, and enhanced cleaning procedures have been in place at Suvarnabhumi Airport since January 2020. The Airports of Thailand (AOT) has also announced public areas at the airport are frequently cleaned multiple times under strict sanitising supervision.

Are the shops and restaurants at the airport open as normal?

Normally, travellers would be able to choose from over 50 dining venues at Suvarnabhumi Airport, including sit down and fast food options. The Covid outbreak led to most restaurants closing, but virtually all have now reopened for business. However, expect fewer seats, social distancing, and be prepared to use contactless payment methods. Duty free shops, newsagents, pharmacies, and general stores are all open for travellers to use as normal.

Are there any special guidelines or other information that travellers should be aware of?

Effective the 1st of May, regardless of the country of origin, all travellers entering Thailand must be quarantined for 14 days. Travellers will need to arrange their own lodging for quarantine from the government's designated list of facilities. Travellers will have to apply and receive a Certificate of Entry (COE) prior to entry Thailand. Please check the following page for more information about Thailand Plus Application and T.8 form (Visitor health inquiry form). This can be made easier by downloading the AOT App which lets you submit all documentation digitally. It can make life much easier and speed up transit through the airport. Download it for Android or iOS phones.

Effective 1st of July, an exception for quarantine will be made for visitors travelling to Phuket as long as they have proof of full-vaccination that is recognised by the World Health Organization (WHO). Other essential documents will be needed, including a negative PCR test (using RT-PCR method) no longer than 72 hours prior to arrival to Thailand, Certificate of Entry (COE), valid visa or re-entry permit (if needed for entry into Thailand), and health insurance policy.

Are there any links to relevant government websites for travellers to bookmark?

If you want to stay up to date with the Covid situation in Thailand, head to the Department of Disease Control website, which features local case numbers and any new restrictions. Otherwise, download the AOT app, and stay in touch with your airline. That way, you can ensure that arriving on your next flight to Bangkok, Thailand that you've booked with BudgetAir is hassle-free.