Loy Krathong chaos at Chiang Mai Airport: 160 flights shuffled, travellers beware!

With the upcoming Loy Krathong Festival in sight, Chiang Mai Airport is set to experience a whirlwind of changes, with a staggering 160 flights facing disruptions from November 27 to 28, post 7pm.

Chiang Mai Airport Deputy Director Wisut Khamyod revealed today a jaw-dropping 101 cancellations and 59 rescheduled flights, creating a turbulence level hitting 47% of regular air traffic.

The turbulence, however, comes with a silver lining. According to Wisut, airlines have diligently notified passengers well in advance, ensuring a smooth journey for those venturing through the festive chaos. But that’s not all.

During Loy Krathong, the airport will be carrying out stringent checks on vehicles and belongings in and around the passenger building. Forget parking in front of the terminal – it’s a no-go zone.

Travellers are advised to get to the airport earlier than usual, as festival traffic is expected to rival a snail’s pace. The airport dispatched correspondence to public and private entities, local authorities, temples, educational institutions, and communities within the airspace safety zone. The purpose is to reiterate a provincial announcement regarding safety protocols.

On November 27 to 28, no lanterns, balloons, rockets, drones, or any other whimsical flying contraptions will be allowed in the aviation safety zone covering a colossal 4.6-kilometre stretch on both sides of the runway and an 18.5 kilometres distance between runway ends, reported Bangkok Post.

Six districts, namely Mueang, Hang Dong, Saraphi, Mae Rim, Sansai, and San Pa Tong will not permit airborne lanterns during the festival.

In related news, Phuket’s Provincial Police force issued a stern reminder of the prohibitions in place for the upcoming Loy Krathong Festival celebrations. These regulations, originally announced by Region 8 Police on Monday, November 20, were communicated by Region 8 Police Commander Lieutenant General Surapong Thanomjit. Read more about the story HERE.

In other news, Chiang Mai International Airport introduced its new 24-hour service with the inaugural flight from Chiang Mai to Osaka. This followed the government’s Quick-Win policy to boost the short-term economy. Nirat Phongsitthaworn, Governor of Chiang Mai Province, presided over the kick-off event at the International Passenger Terminal. Read more about the story HERE.