Bangkok: The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) has issued new regulations to tighten controls on the acceptance of personal belongings by cabin crew members, aiming to upgrade regulatory measures for airlines.
According to Thai News Agency, the recently announced measures are part of an effort to enhance the supervision of airlines and the duties of crew members. The goal is to prevent any misuse of crew status or rights in carrying or transporting goods belonging to others, which could impact safety, aviation security, and the reliability of Thailand's civil aviation system.
The announcement is a direct result of the findings from the second meeting of the Committee on Narcotics Control and Suppression held on July 3, 2026. The meeting established guidelines to strengthen supervisory measures for crew members and prevent misuse of their status. Air Chief Marshal Manat Chawanaprayoon, Director of the CAAT, stated that the authority moved swiftly to issue the announcement following the meeting's guidelines. This regulation mandates that all air operators implement systematic measures to control the acceptance or transportation of goods by cabin crew. It establishes rigorous inspection, risk management, and disciplinary measures. Airlines found in violation will need to comply with company regulations, and CAAT will take actions within its authority, including potentially revoking licenses or certifications.
Additionally, CAAT will bolster the capabilities of personnel involved in aviation security and screening to improve the efficiency of passenger and crew baggage inspections. This effort will be supported by integrated cooperation with airlines, airport operators, and relevant government agencies to enhance aviation security standards in alignment with international norms.
The announcement mandates that all Air Operator Certificate (AOC) holders implement a systematic crew baggage control system. It specifies the permissible types, sizes, weights, and conditions of items crew members may bring on board. It also forbids using crew status to accept, carry, transport, or deliver items for others, except when performing airline-assigned duties.
Airlines are required to establish clear risk management systems, conduct random baggage checks of crew members, provide awareness training, and implement whistleblower systems, fact-finding investigations, and disciplinary measures. These efforts must be integrated into the airlines' overall management, safety management systems (SMS), compliance monitoring systems, and air operator security plans (AOSP).
In cases where there is reasonable suspicion of a crew member's involvement in violations or illegal activities, the air operator must assess the risk, consider temporarily suspending duties, report promptly to CAAT, and cooperate with government agencies in investigations and legal actions.
The CAAT will use this announcement to monitor air operator certificates, including issuance, renewal, and audits, ensuring all airlines have effective control systems and adhere to established standards. This is part of ongoing efforts to enhance safety, security, and confidence in Thailand's civil aviation system at the international level.