Thailand airports cut off to travellers

Hundreds of airline passengers in Thailand have had their travel plans disrupted with several airports remaining closed due to spreading political demonstrations.

The resort island of Phuket has closed its airport after thousands of protesters staged anti-government demonstrations. Two regional airports have also closed down.

Thai Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej has briefed ...

The prime minister flew in a private jet to talk to the king, who is on holiday in the seaside resort town of Hua Hin, where he has a palace.

Although the king has little formal political power, he holds enormous sway over his subjects and has acted as a referee during past political crises.

Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn, who will eventually succeed his father, has also spoken to Mr Samak.

Despite torrential rains early Saturday, thousands of protesters continued to barricade themselves for a fifth day inside Bangkok's main government complex in the capital, demanding that Samak resign and accusing him of acting as a puppet for ousted premier Thaksin Shinawatra.

Skirmishes had broken out Friday as police used shields and batons to deal with angry mobs, causing slight injuries to a handful of protesters.