What if I told you Don Mueang was once called “the upland of hawks”? That’s right. Don Mueang wasn’t always the bustling district we see today. It started as “Don I Yiao”. This translates to “the upland of hawks”. The area’s high terrain meant it avoided floods. It teemed with wildlife, including birds of prey like hawks.
Let’s step back in time to understand Don Mueang’s story. Once upon a time, Don Mueang was part of Bang Khen. In 1989, it became its own district. Later, in 1997, the southern part split off to create Lak Si district.
King Vajiravudh gave Don Mueang its new name. He established the Royal Thai Air Force base here. The air force base and airport brought prosperity.
Don Mueang’s history stretches back to the Ayutthaya period. Back then, it served as a key route from Ayutthaya to the north. Its fertile land was perfect for rice farming. “Don Muang” even translates to “fertile land” in Thai.
In the 1920s, Don Mueang Airport was established. It became Thailand’s first official airport. It grew into a vital hub for air travel in Southeast Asia. Don Mueang Airport boosted international travel and trade. It also supported the growth of Thailand’s aviation industry.
Even after Suvarnabhumi Airport opened in 2006, Don Mueang remained important. Today, Don Mueang is a blend of history and modernity. You will find historic buildings, homes, and shops here.
Don Mueang International Airport is one of the world’s oldest operating airports. It officially opened as a Royal Thai Air Force base on March 27, 1914. Commercial flights started in 1924. The airport has two terminals connected by an elevated walkway. Terminal 1 handles international flights. Terminal 2 handles domestic flights.
At its peak, Don Mueang managed the most air traffic in Thailand. In 2004, 80 airlines operated 160000 flights. They handled over 38 million passengers and 700000 tons of cargo. It was the 14th-busiest airport worldwide. Today, Don Mueang is the main base for Nok Air, Thai AirAsia, Thai AirAsia X, and Thai Lion Air.
Don Mueang has seen its share of historical moments. In 1933, the Boworadet Rebellion saw heavy fighting here. During World War II, Japanese forces occupied the airfield. Allied aircraft bombed it several times.
The district is divided into three sub-districts. These are Si Kan, Don Mueang, and Sanambin.
Don Mueang has a tropical climate. The average temperature is around 29 degrees Celsius. Rainfall is highest in September.
Don Mueang’s economy relies heavily on its airport. Airports of Thailand and Thai Lion Air have their head offices here.
Many visitors explore the Royal Thai Air Force Museum. Founded in 1952, it preserves old planes and aviation memorabilia. The museum showcases rare planes. It also details Thailand’s role in World War II.
From its humble beginnings as an upland teeming with hawks to its current status as a vital air travel hub, Don Mueang stands as a testament to Thailand’s dynamic history.