Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) BKK: Departure times and transfers

Flying from/to Bangkok Suvarnabhumi International Airport

If you are planning to fly to/from Bangkok Suvarnabhumi International Airport, check out our tips on what’s the best way to travel between the airport and the city center. It’s always good to know, what’s the most convenient way to get to your destination. You can also find some data on the Bangkok Suvarnabhumi International Airport facilities and some local tips on the airport itself.

Arriving at Bangkok Suvarnabhumi International Airport (BKK) 

Bangkok Suvarnabhumi International Airport​​​ is one of Bangkok's two main airports and the busiest in Thailand. The capital, Bangkok, is known for its fantastic culture and street food, and as the home of the Thai monarchy.  Bangkok International Airport is open 24 hours a day. There are plenty of sleep-friendly places throughout the airport for those waiting for overnight transfers. A range of national and international airlines land at Bangkok Airport, including Etihad, Air France, Thai Smile, and Norwegian. 

What's the best way to get from Bangkok Suvarnabhumi International Airport​​ to the city center?

The best way to travel from Bangkok Suvarnabhumi International Airport​​ to the city center, in terms of speed and cost, is the Airport Rail Link City Line​. The service runs between 6:00 a.m. and midnight each day, with one departure approximately every 12 minutes between those hours.  Another public transport service provided from Bangkok International Airport to Bangkok city center is the public van. Public vans stop at neighborhoods between the airport and Bangkok's Victory Monument, making vans a good option for those staying slightly outside the city center. Public vans depart from 5:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. They usually leave every 20 minutes. Exceptions are in the peak travel hours in the afternoon, between 4:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m, when the vans depart every 5 minutes.  Other travel options include a private transfer arranged by hotels or an airport taxi, which both afford privacy and comfort. An airport taxi is typically the cheaper of the two options. 

How far is the city center from Bangkok Suvarnabhumi International Airport​​?

Bangkok Suvarnabhumi International Airport​​ is 18 miles (30 kilometers) from Bangkok city center​. The fastest way to travel from the airport to the city center is by using the Airport Rail Link City Line, which takes approximately 30 minutes.  Traveling by private car, either by rental car, airport taxi, or private transfer, takes approximately 40 minutes.  The slowest method to reach Bangkok city center is by public van, which takes approximately 50 minutes. However, public vans are convenient for travelers staying between the airport and the city center, as it stops along the route. 

What services are there at Bangkok Suvarnabhumi International Airport​​?

Travelers can enjoy a wide variety of services at Bangkok Suvarnabhumi International Airport​​​. Free WiFi is available for all passengers in all sections of the airport. Facilities are also available for travelers who want to store their luggage for a few hours up to 6 months.  Muslim passengers can benefit from access to a prayer room and facilities for those on Hajj. For passengers who want to do some grooming after a flight, they can elect to visit a spa, hairdresser, or massage parlor.  A range of shopping and dining options are available throughout Bangkok Airport. Travelers will be able to indulge in traditional Thai cuisine, alongside Western dining options and other popular Asian food. 

How accessible is the route for those with limited mobility?

Barrier-free access in Bangkok Suvarnabhumi International Airport​​ is available for those with disabilities and special access requirements. Passengers can benefit from assistance from the entrance of the airport, through check-in and security checks, and up to boarding, if they call their airline or the customer service department up to 48 hours in advance.  Accessible restrooms are available in all areas of Bangkok Airport. Elevators and ramp facilitate step-free access to all of the entertainment and dining facilities throughout the airport. 

Local tips: what to know before flying to Bangkok Suvarnabhumi International Airport​​

Bangkok Airport​ is a bustling, modern, and well-organized international transport hub. Passengers can expect to spend an average of 40 to 60 minutes to get through security and claim their baggage before leaving the airport. Passengers would be advised to make sure that they have all their belongings in order before they pass through security. The neighborhood outside the airport can be a bit chaotic and disorienting for first-time travelers. Travelers are advised to keep local currency and any information they need for the journey securely but within easy reach before leaving the airport. There are ATM machines and currency exchanges before security. Western visitors are advised not to stand too close to Thai people when engaging in friendly conversation. All travelers should know that insulting the monarchy is a crime and very offensive to many Thai people.  Passengers are advised to arrive at the airport 2 hours before their scheduled boarding when they return for their departure flight.