Phuket airport initially posted its message calling for people to allow the extra time in order to reach flights in time before the New Year, but was reissued via a local public relations channel came late yesterday (Jan 1).
The reissued notice came as dense traffic clogged Phuket’s main roads as visitors started leaving the island to return home for work today (Jan 2).
Thepkrasattri Rd (Route 401) especially suffered heavy traffic congestion as motorists headed for the bridges off the island at the northern tip of Phuket, the notice explained.
Thepkrasattri Rd is the main traffic artery along the centre of Phuket, feeding all traffic from the bridges to Phuket Town and tourist popular areas in the southern half of the island.
The road also serves as the main artery for all traffic heading to and from the airport.
Heavy traffic congestion on Thepkrasattri Rd northbound started at Thalang, and became especially heavy after the airport turnoff, the notice said.
Drivers were asked to remain patient, and to drive safely.
With the nation returning to work today, traffic in Phuket is expected to return to the normal delays expected during the tourism high season.