BANGKOK ~ Thai carriers were divided this week on the government’s proposal to move some domestic flights to Bangkok’s old hub to pave the way for repair work at the new Suvarnabhumi Airport.

Flag carrier Thai Airways International gave a warm response to the proposal to temporarily move to the old hub on a voluntary basis, but others, like AirAsia, were not so keen and said they would remain at the new airport. The plan will be sent to cabinet for approval next week.

“We are ready to move some domestic flights back to Don Muang while some other flights which have international connections – like those flying to tourism hubs like Chiang Mai, Phuket and Krabi – will remain with service at Suvarnabhumi,” said Thai Airway’s president Apinan Sumanaseni.