Thai protesters pack up but economy is set to suffer

PROTESTERS packed up their sleeping mats and tents as the siege of Thai airports came to an end yesterday.

But with millions of travellers believed to have cancelled their plans, the long-term damage to Thailand's economy may be severe.

Over the remainder of the year losses are projected to reach almost £3 billion.

Vudhibhandhu Vichairatana, the chairman of the Airports of Thailand, said no weapons or bombs were left behind and no damage was done to Bangkok International or the domestic Don Muang airport during the week-long sit-ins by the People's Alliance for Democracy.

He added that computer, communication and security systems are expected to be operational over the next few days.

Flights in and out of Bangkok resumed yesterday. Normally, the airport serves about 100 airlines with flights to 184 cities in 68 countries.