AirAsia and Malaysia Airlines cancelled their flights into and out of Bangkok after Thai authorities closed Suvarnabhumi International Airport.

AirAsia, on its website, said all affected customers would automatically receive a refund via a credit shell.

MAS operations director Datuk Tajuden Abu Bakar said that as the closure was indefinite, the airline was unable to say when flights would resume.

The statement said in AirAsia web site the credit shell could be used to redeem a seat on the next available flight to or from Bangkok within three days from the passenger’s original date of travel, subject to the reopening of the airport in Bangkok and availability of seats. It added that arrangements for the next flight to or from Bangkok must be done at the AirAsia sales counter at the respective airport of departure.

Penang Thai Airways International general manager Niruth Sripawatakul said yesterday about 250 passengers who were supposed to board an 8.10am flight were turned back.

Most of the Malaysian travellers going to Thailand for business or vacation have been advised to look at the situation in view of protests in Bangkok.

The Deputy Foreign Minister Datuk Abdul Rahim Bakri said they should contact the Malaysian Embassy in the capital city and they will find themselves in a difficult situation because of the ongoing protest.

Abdul Rahim said the tense situation in Bangkok was confined to specific places. He also said “Hotels and tourist spots are not affected and it is business as usual for the people in Bangkok.”