Chiang Rai flood chaos: Flights resume partially

Passengers flying to and from Chiang Rai’s Mae Fah Luang Airport today are in for a nightmare journey as severe flooding threatens to derail travel plans. The airport confirmed four inbound and four outbound flights will operate but is urging travellers to allow up to five hours just to reach the terminal.

Flights operated by Thai Airways International, Nok Air, Thai Lion Air, and Thai AirAsia will make the trip from Bangkok to the northern border province but the chaos doesn’t end there. Thai VietJet is yet to confirm its schedule, leaving passengers on edge.

The airport advised passengers to check with airlines before setting off after yesterday’s flight cancellations saw scores of frustrated passengers stranded. While the airport itself remains operational, the flooded roads have made access nearly impossible, reported Bangkok Post.

The airport is also advising passengers to avoid smaller vehicles due to high water levels. With limited transport options available, getting to the airport has turned into a logistical nightmare.

For now, travellers will have to brace themselves for delays, cancellations, and difficult journeys through the flood-hit region.

ORIGINAL STORY: Chiang Rai Airport remains open amid flooding, flights from Bangkok cancelled

Mae Fah Luang International Airport in the northern province of Chiang Rai remains open despite heavy flooding in the area. However, some airlines cancelled flights for safety reasons.

The official Facebook page of Mae Fah Luang Airport issued an announcement this morning, September 12, stating that the airport is open as usual, although the entrance is flooded. The water level was still below the footpath according to the latest update at around 4.30am today.

The airport suggested that passengers plan their trips carefully, as it may take five to six hours to reach the airport due to flooding in the surrounding area. The recommended route to the airport is via Phahon Yothin Road near the Meteorological Station.

According to the announcement, passengers should check directly with their airlines for updates on flight schedules, as these may be affected by the flooding.

For the safety of passengers and crew, Don Mueang and Suvarnabhumi International Airports in Bangkok cancelled all flights to Chiang Rai province. Additionally, Thai Lion Air and VietJet cancelled all departing and arriving flights.

Further information and updates can be found on the airport’s official Facebook page.

Thai PBS reported today that five major routes in Chiang Rai are closed including:

• Kok River Bridge and Khun Mengrai Intersection
• Khua Phaya Mengrai Bridge (from Chiang Rai Police Station Intersection to Ban Mai Intersection)
• Chaloerm Prakiat Intersection (from Central Stadium to T.6 School and Mae Fah Luang Airport)
• Mae Fah Luang Bridge (in front of Chiang Rai Provincial Hall)
• Ban Hor New Bridge (from Huay Prakang Temple Intersection to Samakkhee 2 School)

Eight national parks in northern Thailand are now closed, including Doi Luang National Park, Khun Jae National Park, Phu Sang National Park, Doi Phu Nang National Park, Lam Nam Kok National Park, Mae Peem National Park, Tham Luang-Khun Nam Nang Non National Park, and Phu Chi Fa National Park.