On 1 July 2023, Pol. Lt. Gen. Itthiphol Ithisarnronnachai, Commissioner of the Immigration Bureau, conducted an inspection of the new automatic passport control gates at Suvarnabhumi Airport. The inspection was part of an initiative to enhance the efficiency of the airport’s immigration process for Thai nationals.
Welcomed by Pol. Maj. Gen. Cheeringron Rimphadee, the inspection focused on the newly installed e-gates aimed at streamlining passport control. These Automatic Channels, supported by Airports of Thailand (AOT), are being implemented in phases, with 13 out of the planned 56 e-gates currently operational in the departure area.
Once fully implemented, the new e-gates will complement the existing 16 gates, significantly reducing processing times. Currently, these e-gates are available exclusively for Thai citizens, while foreign nationals will continue using the older systems, as reported by Siam Rath.
The efficiency of the new system has been affirmed by Pol. Lt. Gen. Itthiphol, who noted that each passenger takes no more than 20 seconds to pass through the e-gates. This development represents a notable improvement in travel efficiency and passenger convenience at Suvarnabhumi Airport.
Additionally, preparations are underway to fully test the biometric capabilities of these gates. These tests, conducted in collaboration with AOT, aim to extend the use of the new e-gates to foreign travelers once successfully completed.
During his visit, Pol. Lt. Gen. Itthiphol also took the opportunity to share a meal with on-duty immigration officers, emphasizing the importance of their welfare and expressing gratitude to AOT for its ongoing support and cooperation with the Immigration Bureau.
This initiative is expected to significantly enhance operational efficiency at Suvarnabhumi Airport, ensuring smoother and faster processes for passengers. Further improvements and expansions are anticipated as the project progresses.
