A Study of Sidewalk Quality and Pedestrian Environment in the Don Mueang International Airport Area, Bangkok

Abstract

This research aimed to investigate the quality of sidewalks and the pedestrian environment in the vicinity of Don Mueang International Airport, Bangkok, by evaluating four aspects: safety, route continuity, facilities, and obstacles, as well as comparing sidewalk quality among the study areas. A field survey was conducted at seven study sites covering approximately 6 kilometers of pedestrian routes during October 2025. Data were collected on the physical characteristics of sidewalks, including sidewalk width, pavement condition, level differences, slope, lighting, facilities, and obstacles. The collected data were then comparatively analyzed to evaluate sidewalk quality across the study sites. The results revealed that sidewalk quality and the pedestrian environment varied among the study sites. Sidewalk widths ranged from 0.81 to 2.49 m, and only two study sites met the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) standard requiring a minimum sidewalk width of 1.50 m. The major limitations included insufficient sidewalk width, discontinuous pedestrian routes, inadequate facilities for persons with disabilities, and the presence of obstacles such as utility poles, traffic signs, trees, and overhead cables, all of which affected pedestrian convenience and safety. The findings can be used to support sidewalk improvement by prioritizing route continuity, reducing physical obstructions, and improving accessibility facilities for all users, thereby promoting safe walking and improving access to public transportation.