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Don Mueang Airport Launches 24-Hour Automated Passport Control for Departing Passengers Starting 5 Mar to Enhance Traveler Convenience

Politic03 Mar 2026 10:38 GMT+7

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Don Mueang Airport Launches 24-Hour Automated Passport Control for Departing Passengers Starting 5 Mar to Enhance Traveler Convenience

The government deputy spokesperson revealed that Don Mueang Airport is opening automated passport control lanes for departing passengers operating 24 hours daily starting 5 March, aiming to reduce queue times and enhance traveler convenience.

On 3 March 2026, Ms. Lalida Pertwivatana, Deputy Spokesperson for the Office of the Prime Minister, announced that Don Mueang Airport Immigration has officially launched Automated Border Control (ABC) lanes for departing passengers to facilitate convenience, shorten waiting times, and elevate service standards through digital systems.

The Deputy Spokesperson stated that after a trial period in mid-February, Don Mueang Immigration is now fully prepared, initially operating from 07:00 to 19:00, and will expand to 24-hour service starting 5 March 2026.

Additionally, installation of more ABC machines is underway to reach the target of 31 units throughout the airport by April 2026.

Conditions for Using the ABC Lanes

To ensure smooth operation, passengers should verify the following conditions before using the service:
• Minimum height of 120 centimeters.
• Passport must have at least six months of remaining validity.
• Passengers with newly issued passports must wait at least 14 days before using the system.
• Carry-on baggage, including wheeled suitcases, must not exceed 120 centimeters in height.

Groups Recommended to Use Regular Inspection Lanes

• Pregnant women, for safety and convenience.
• Passengers requiring a physical passport stamp (since the ABC system does not stamp passports, but travel data is legally recorded in the system).

The Deputy Spokesperson noted that launching ABC lanes is part of developing international travel facilitation systems, helping reduce congestion during peak times and improving passenger management efficiency.

“The government aims to modernize immigration services while maintaining security standards to make travel more convenient, faster, and more reliable for the public,” she said.