Passengers eagerly await their flights at Suvarnabhumi airport in Samut Prakan, buzzing with the news that soon, they can sip on their favorite alcoholic beverages while waiting. Yes, you read it right! Suvarnabhumi and five other major international airports have the official go-ahead to serve alcoholic drinks, following a long-anticipated announcement. (Photo: Suvarnabhumi Airport)
What started as a dull Thursday took an exciting turn when the Alcoholic Beverage Control Committee gave a green light for all airports under the Airports of Thailand Plc (AoT) to start serving alcohol on Asarnha Bucha, Visakha Bucha, Makha Bucha, Buddhist Lent, and the end of Buddhist Lent days. These six bustling hubs—Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Phuket, and Hat Yai—are set to transform the way travelers experience layovers and delays, with a toast to the boost in tourism this change promises.
For years, alcohol sales have been strictly prohibited across Thailand on these sacred Buddhist days. Imagine the surprise when Deputy Prime Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit, presiding over the momentous meeting, announced this groundbreaking shift aimed at supercharging the country’s tourism revenue. While he didn’t specify the exact date this policy would kick in, it’s clear that the change awaits only a formal amendment to the Prime Minister’s Office announcement.
However, as one door opens, another stays firmly shut. The meeting nixed a proposal from the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) that sought to reconsider the sale of alcohol—including beer—at train stations and onboard trains. Policymakers requested the SRT to go back to the drawing board, delving deeper into the plan’s economic implications and public health considerations.
The standing ban on alcohol sales at train stations and on trains was put into effect in 2015, following a harrowing incident in July 2014. It involved a former railway employee who, after consuming beer on a train, sexually assaulted a 13-year-old passenger and then tragically threw her out of the train window. That dark chapter led to strict regulations that today seem unyielding in the face of recent proposals.
While the skies over Thailand’s six major airports may soon carry the cheerful clinks of glasses, the country’s railways remain a sobering testament to the need for comprehensive study and cautious policymaking. Here’s to hoping that whatever changes come next, they balance both the zest for economic growth and the imperative for public safety. Cheers to small victories and cautious optimism!
This is amazing news! I hate those dry layovers.
Sure, until people start getting rowdy and causing trouble in the terminals. Not everyone handles alcohol well!
Totally agree, Trevor. I can already see the potential for chaos.
Valid points, but moderation is key. Maybe they can have drink limits?
What a double standard! Why allow alcohol in airports but not on trains?
The incident in 2014 was horrific. They have their reasons for being cautious.
I get the concern, but that was one person. Why penalize everyone for it?
Phil, public safety outweighs the convenience of a few passengers. One tragedy is enough.
Alcohol and airports do not mix well, IMO. People already stressed about flying don’t need liquor to make it worse.
Or it could help them relax? Ever thought about that?
I agree, yummyearth. On a cultural note, this seems disrespectful on sacred days.
But tourism feeds the economy. Sometimes compromises are needed.
I don’t understand why we need to westernize everything. What happened to respecting our traditions?
It’s about economic growth, Chan. Traditions can coexist with modernity.
Maybe, but our identity shouldn’t be up for sale.
I feel sorry for the airport staff. Handling tipsy travelers sounds like a nightmare.
True, but it might also create new job opportunities in hospitality.
Capitalism at its finest! Anything to make a quick buck, huh?
It’s not just for profit. Increased tourism benefits everyone, including small businesses.
If this helps with tourism, I’m all for it. Let’s face it, we need all the help we can get post-pandemic.
Good point, but let’s not forget about promoting responsible tourism too.
Why are we discussing alcohol sales instead of focusing on improving airport infrastructure first?
Eh, one doesn’t have to exclude the other. We can improve both simultaneously.
I think it’s about time! Other major airports do it, so why not us?
Regular tourists and holidaymakers might like it, but it’s not good for devoted Buddhists. Alcohol on sacred days is a no-go.
Airports are international spaces. Not everyone shares the same religious beliefs.
We should respect local traditions regardless. This is a sensitive issue.
Imagine kids seeing drunk people at airports. Bad influence much?
Bars already exist in airports, and parents should manage what their children see.
True, but this could lead to more people drinking at odd hours.
How about better customer service and more comfortable seating? Priorities, people!
Enhancing passenger experience can include multiple upgrades including alcohol.
Alcohol won’t fix layover boredom. How about more activities and entertainment?
This could lead to irresponsible behavior and regrets for many. I would foresee more incidents.
But isn’t personal responsibility a thing? People should know their limits.
True, Julia, but not everyone exercises self-control.