Phuket Airport boosts security after Brussels blasts

PHUKET: A bomb disposal squad is on standby and extra military personnel are on guard at checkpoints in and around Phuket International Airport.

“We have raised the security status to ‘level three plus’ and have implemented extra safety measures throughout the airport and surrounding area,” said Phuket Airport Director Monrudee Gettuphan.

Checkpoints at the airport’s entrance went up at 8pm on March 22 in response to the news of the blasts in Belgium (story here).

“We are monitoring the situation in Brussels closely for any further developments,” confirmed Ms Monrudee.

Other extra security measures put in place at the airport include increased foot patrols by security personnel throughout the airport and strict control of vehicles.

Vehicles are being checked at the airport entrance and extra security personnel are keeping a close eye on the parking facilities. No parking is allowed near the terminal entrance, although passengers may be dropped off as normal.

Inside the airport terminals, passengers are being subjected to tighter baggage inspections. However, all domestic and international flights are operating as normal.

“The airport is doing its best not to inconvenience passengers unnecessarily. We thank visitors for their understanding. Anyone who sees anything suspicious can call 076-351 009,” said Ms Monrudee.

— Chutharat Plerin