The Airport Rail Link (ARL) is a rapid transit line that connects downtown Bangkok, Thailand, with Suvarnabhumi Airport, the city's main international airport. The ARL provides a convenient and efficient transportation option for both residents and visitors.
Here are some key details about the Airport Rail Link in Bangkok:
Route: The Airport Rail Link operates along a single line, starting from Phaya Thai Station in downtown Bangkok and ending at Suvarnabhumi Airport. The total length of the line is approximately 28 kilometers.
Stations: The ARL has eight stations in total. Apart from Phaya Thai and Suvarnabhumi Airport, the other stations are Ratchaprarop, Makkasan, Ramkhamhaeng, Hua Mak, Ban Thap Chang, and Lat Krabang.
Trains and Frequency: The Airport Rail Link operates electric trains that are air-conditioned and designed for comfortable travel. The trains are equipped with luggage racks, priority seating, and spaces for larger bags. During peak hours, trains usually run every 10 minutes, while the frequency may be slightly reduced during non-peak hours.
Travel Time: The journey from Phaya Thai Station to Suvarnabhumi Airport takes approximately 30 minutes. The ARL offers a fast and reliable means of transportation, particularly during rush hours when road traffic in Bangkok can be congested.
Fares: The Airport Rail Link fares vary depending on the distance traveled. The ticket price ranges from around 15 to 45 Thai Baht, depending on the station of embarkation and disembarkation. Fares can be paid using tokens or by using the stored-value Rabbit Card, which is a contactless smart card used for various modes of transportation in Bangkok.
Integration with BTS Skytrain: The Phaya Thai station on the ARL is an interchange station with the BTS Skytrain's Sukhumvit Line. This allows passengers to transfer easily between the Airport Rail Link and the BTS Skytrain, enhancing connectivity and providing access to different parts of Bangkok.
Operating Hours: The Airport Rail Link operates daily from around 6:00 AM until midnight. The first trains departing from both Phaya Thai and Suvarnabhumi Airport typically start around 6:00 AM, and the last trains depart shortly before midnight.
The Airport Rail Link is a convenient option for travelers looking for an efficient and affordable means of transportation between downtown Bangkok and Suvarnabhumi Airport. It offers a reliable alternative to taxis, private cars, and buses, particularly during peak traffic hours.