After years of delays and many postponed dates, it appears we now have an official, firm opening date for the start of commercial service for the Bangkok Airport Link. The new train service links Suvarnabhumi International Airport to the city. The Express Service runs non-stop from the airport to the new City Terminal in just 15 minutes. According to the government information ministry, the Airport Link will begin commercial service on 23 August 2010.

The City Line, which uses the same tracks but stops at several points, has been in free testing for a few months now. It’s perhaps worth noting that there have been many news reports and blog postings about the City Line, which have confused it with the Airport Link. In particular, the Airport Link uses different trains than the City Line, which is effectively a commuter service. The interior of the Airport Link trains are considerably different – more comfortable – than the City Line trains.

The fare for the Airport Link Express Service is 150 Baht (about US$ 5) but a discount to 100 Baht will be offered until the end of 2010. Note that baggage check facilities at the City Terminal will not be available until the end of the year.

Fares on the City Line will be 15 to 45 Baht, although there will also be a special opening discount of a flat 15 Baht for this service as well.