Lanterns not cleared for Loy Krathong lift-off in Phuket

PHUKET: Airports of Thailand (AoT) Phuket warned those celebrating Loy Krathong today that releasing lanterns in the Air Safety Zone surrounding the international airport could result in charges carrying a sentence of up 20 years imprisonment or death.

The hefty penalty is cited in Thailand Air Navigation Act, BE Section 6(3).

“People like to release lanterns during Loy Krathong, especially people staying at hotels or in areas where celebrations are being held,” Acting Director of Phuket International Airport Kanputt Mungklasiri said. “However, we are worried that they could cause serious damage to low-flying aircraft.”

Cap Kanputt explained that he was concerned that the modern renditions of these traditional lanterns could get caught in the engine of an airplane.

“In the past, lanterns were made of wood and paper. But now, people have developed larger lanterns that last longer and go higher,” he said.

People are asked not to release lanterns in the following areas in Thalang:

Tambon Mai Khao: Baan Boh Sai Klang; Baan Boh Sai; Baan Rakmai; Baan Bo Som; Baan Mai Khao; Baan Thung Ka; Baan Som Poi; Baan Mak Prok; Baan Yoon; Baan Hua Hong; Baan Bangduk; Baan Kok Yang; Baan Yid; Baan Koh En; Baan Ao To Khun; Koh Nok; and Koh Kala

Tambon Thepkrasattri: Baan Laemsai; Baan Muang Mai; Baan Tah Maprow; Baan Jatu; Baan Bang Kanoon; Baan Khao Taokliang; Baan Na chok; and Baan Tah Sak

Tambon Paklok: Koh Nham; Koh Bah Yu; and Koh Lawa Noi

Tambon Sakoo: Baan Din Sai, Baan Din Niow; Baan Nai Yang: Baan Hamalong; Baan Sakoo; and Baan Nai Thon.

“Also lanterns should not be released in Koh Lawa Yai, Koh Pae Laem Lom, Laem Sam and Baan Bangjan in Phang Nga,” he added.

— Chutharat Plerin