Bangkok: The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) is closely monitoring the flood situation in the southern region and is coordinating with all aviation agencies to ensure safe airport operations and minimize potential impacts to passengers and the local public. Hat Yai Airport has been affected by flooding around the airport grounds, making travel difficult. Although the airport remains open, to alleviate passenger hardship, the CAAT has coordinated with all airlines to implement urgent relief measures, such as rescheduling travel dates, rerouting, or refunding fares. Airlines have adjusted their procedures to be flexible under the CAAT’s regulatory framework.
According to Thai News Agency, for passengers arriving at Hat Yai Airport who are unable to leave the area, airlines including Thai Airways, Bangkok Airways, Thai Vietjet Air, Thai Lion Air, Thai AirAsia, and Nok Air have been continuously providing drinking water and food to passengers and airport staff. In addition, CAAT has coordinated with local airlines and airports to facilitate the transport of relief supplies, food, drinking water, and medical supplies to the affected areas. The CAAT will oversee all procedures to ensure compliance with air transport safety standards, including scheduling flights, coordinating storage areas, and supporting transportation to ensure aid reaches the affected areas as quickly as possible.
Regarding airports in the lower southern region, despite continued rainfall, airlines are operating flights as usual at all airports. Some passengers are adjusting their travel plans from Hat Yai Airport to nearby airports, such as Narathiwat Airport and Krabi Airport, which are experiencing increased passenger numbers but remain below service capacity. CAAT has been working closely with airlines, airports, and the Aeronautical Radio of Thailand Co., Ltd. to address the flooding situation in the South. The focus is on managing airports to ensure safe operations, as well as coordinating assistance for passengers and officials to ensure smooth travel and service during this crisis.