Don Mueang International Airport
Bangkok, Thailand
Don Mueang International Airport
Bangkok's historic gateway, hub for low-cost carriers.
- ›Don Mueang is one of the oldest international airports in Asia, with aviation use dating to 1914.
- ›It served as Thailand's sole international airport for decades before Suvarnabhumi opened in 2006.
- ›The Royal Thai Air Force still shares the airfield with commercial operations.
- ›A golf course is located between the two runway systems.
- ›In peak years before COVID-19, it handled over 40 million passengers annually.
Don Mueang International Airport, one of the world's oldest continuously operating commercial airports, has served Bangkok since 1914 and remains a vital hub for low-cost carriers across Southeast Asia. Reopened to commercial traffic in 2007 after Suvarnabhumi's launch, it now handles tens of millions of passengers annually, primarily serving airlines like AirAsia, Nok Air, and Lion Air. Its dual-terminal layout and proximity to northern Bangkok make it a practical entry point for budget-conscious travellers exploring Thailand and the region.
- Terminal 1 — The main international and domestic terminal handling the majority of low-cost carrier departures and arrivals.
- Terminal 2 — A secondary terminal used for overflow domestic operations and select airline services during peak periods.
- A1 express bus service to Mo Chit BTS and Chatuchak area
- A2 express bus service to Victory Monument BTS station
- Metered taxis available at designated ranks outside arrivals
- Grab ride-hailing app widely used from the airport
- Public bus routes connecting to central Bangkok neighborhoods
- Car rental desks available inside the arrivals hall
- Amari Don Mueang Airport Bangkok
- Ibis Bangkok Don Mueang
- Novotel Bangkok Don Mueang Airport
- Sleep Box Hotel Don Mueang
- Classic Kameo Hotel Bangkok
Inside the terminals, travellers will find a mix of Thai fast-food chains, international quick-service outlets, and convenience stores such as 7-Eleven for budget snacks and drinks. Airside dining options are limited compared to Suvarnabhumi, so arriving early is advisable if you prefer a sit-down meal before departure. Just outside the airport along Vibhavadi Rangsit Road, a range of local Thai restaurants and street food vendors offer more authentic and affordable options.
- Allow extra time for road transfers to central Bangkok, as traffic on Vibhavadi Rangsit Road can be severe during peak hours.
- The A1 and A2 express buses are the most economical way to connect to the BTS Skytrain network for onward travel.
- A free shuttle bus operates between Don Mueang and Suvarnabhumi Airport for passengers with connecting flights — confirm timing at the transport desk.
- Exchange rates at airport currency booths are generally lower than in the city; use booths sparingly and withdraw cash from ATMs using a low-fee card where possible.
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Stay, Eat & Explore: Bangkok
The city of angels
- •Grand Palace & Wat Phra Kaew — The dazzling royal compound and Emerald Buddha.
- •Wat Pho — The 46-metre Reclining Buddha and birthplace of Thai massage.
- •Wat Arun — The porcelain-studded Temple of Dawn across the river.
- •Chatuchak Weekend Market — 15,000 stalls — the world's largest weekend market.
- •Street food in Chinatown (Yaowarat) — Neon-lit woks and Michelin-listed noodle stalls.
Getting around: BTS Skytrain and MRT beat the traffic; the Airport Rail Link connects Suvarnabhumi. River express boats and tuk-tuks are experiences in themselves.
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Don Mueang International Airport — known as Bangkok International Airport before 2006 — is one of two international airports serving Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, the other being Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK).
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