BANGKOK, THAILAND – Thailand’s State Railway launched a new low-cost diesel feeder service between Don Muang and Ayutthaya as a six-month test to improve links to the Red Line and Don Mueang Airport.
Start date and trial operation
The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) started operating the new feeder trains on 20 April and scheduled the trial to run until 31 October. This was announced by acting governor Anan Photnimdang.
During this phase, the SRT aimed to evaluate the performance of the service to support later steps toward a more integrated national rail network. The results of the trial were to serve as a basis for further development.
Rolling stock: KIHA 40 and KIHA 48
The service used refurbished diesel multiple units of the KIHA 40 and KIHA 48 series. According to the SRT, a total of six overhauled units were planned for the route.
The trains came from a donation by East Japan Railway Company in 2024. Before entering service, they were upgraded, including work on engines, electrical systems and interiors.
Weekday timetable and frequency
On weekdays, the SRT planned six round trips per day. Services were expected to operate roughly between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m.
The offer was aimed mainly at commuters and daytime travellers moving between Bangkok and Ayutthaya. The SRT did not provide detailed departure times in the announcement.
Route and station stops
The connection covered a total of eight stations on the corridor. Named stops included Don Muang, Thammasat University, Bang Pa-in and Ayutthaya.
The route was designed as a direct feeder linking several key destinations along the line. The SRT highlighted convenient access to educational institutions and tourist-relevant locations.
Link to Red Line and Don Mueang Airport
A central goal was integration with the SRT Red Line and Don Mueang International Airport. This was intended to make transfers easier and journeys more efficient.
The SRT presented the new service as a cheaper alternative at a time of persistently high energy prices. The feeder was expected to provide financial relief for passengers.
Comfort upgrades: air-con, toilets, luggage
According to the SRT, the donated trainsets were technically and internally upgraded. Improvements included the propulsion systems, electrical equipment and on-board fittings.
Features cited by the operator were air-conditioning, closed toilet systems and luggage racks. The aim was to make the service not only cheaper but also more comfortable.
Ridership target and ticket prices
The SRT expected the line to attract at least 1,000 passengers per day. This forecast was to be tested during the trial operation.
Single fares started at 30 to 50 Baht, according to the railway. With these prices, the route positioned itself as a budget-friendly option for travel between Don Muang and Ayutthaya.
“Would you use this new feeder service between Don Muang and Ayutthaya—for commuting, airport transfers or day trips?”
said the article, inviting readers to comment on whether price, frequency and stops met their needs.
“What matters most to you in new rail services in Thailand: more connections, better transfers to the Red Line, or above all reliability and comfort?”
said the text, calling on passengers to share their experiences with the SRT.