Suvarnabhumi Airport Core Capacity Development in Compliance with the International Health Regulations (2005), 2007 – 2012

Abstract

International Health Regulations, 2005 (IHR 2005) has come into force on 15 June 2007. Thailand, as a Member State to World Health Organization, has designated 18 points of entry (PoE) to develop IHR core capacity. This documentary research aims to demonstrate the process of core capacity development at Suvarnabhumi airport, Thailand. All documents related to IHR development were reviewed. In-depth interviews and discussion with the Suvarnabhumi working group were conducted for assessment of IHR Core Capacity Development by using WHO PoE’s checklist. Results as of August 2011 came up that the overall IHR core capacity was 61%. During 2008 – 2012 many activities has been done to fulfill the IHR requirements such as the improvement of coordination mechanism within the airport and with other international airports as well as public communications among passengers. The public health emergency of international concern contingency plan was also developed. In conclusion, overall IHR core capacity at Suvarnabhumi airport met IHR requirements in 2012 and no necessitation to request WHO for 2 years extension. However, the development should be continuously implemented to maintain its status as an important airport in Asia and globally.