Thailand video news | Russian Airline flight makes emergency landing at BKK, Indonesia launches $183M free health screening program
Alex and Jay bring the latest Thailand video news from Thailand and Southeast Asia, covering a range of impactful stories. From an Aeroflot flight making an emergency landing in Bangkok to growing concerns over stray dog attacks in Pattaya, they explore pressing local issues. Meanwhile, Thailand prepares for Makha Bucha Day with nationwide bar closures, and a viral rescue video in Phuket showcases community heroism. Other highlights include a three-legged dog’s courageous act against a cobra, a heartfelt reunion between a Thai girl and her Swiss rescuer, and Indonesia’s ambitious $183 million health screening initiative. Stay tuned for these stories and more.
Russian Airline Flight Makes Emergency Landing at BKK After Circling for 3 Hours
A Russian Aeroflot flight from Phuket to Moscow made an emergency landing at Suvarnabhumi Airport after circling the Andaman Sea for over three hours due to a front landing gear issue. The Boeing 777-300 (ER) couldn’t retract its front gear after takeoff, prompting the diversion to Bangkok for better emergency support. As a precaution, the plane burned fuel before landing. Emergency teams ensured a safe touchdown at 21:10, with no injuries reported. Thai Airways is assisting over 300 passengers with onward travel to Moscow.
Pattaya Locals Demand Action After Stray Dog Attacks Young Girl
Pattaya locals are demanding action after a stray dog severely attacked a 10-year-old girl at the Eastern National Sports Training Centre during Burapha Bike Week. The girl suffered a deep leg wound requiring 15 stitches. Despite the attack, no authorities took responsibility, and stray dogs remained in the area. Vendors noted that locals fed the dogs but did not adopt them, leading to an increase in their numbers. Some are calling for official intervention to prevent future incidents, as this was not the first attack.
Bars Across Thailand to Close for Buddhist Holiday
Bars across Thailand will close on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, for Makha Bucha Day, a major Buddhist holiday. The day marks Buddha’s teachings on moral conduct and is observed with temple visits, meditation, and alcohol abstinence. Thai law prohibits alcohol sales on religious holidays, meaning bars and convenience stores cannot sell alcohol for 24 hours, from midnight to midnight. Violators risk heavy fines and potential jail time.
Bystanders Overturn Car to Save Motorcyclist, But Victim Dies in Hospital
Nearly 20 people, including Thai, Burmese, and foreign witnesses, worked together to overturn a sedan and rescue an elderly motorcyclist trapped underneath in Phuket on February 9. Despite their efforts, he later died in the hospital on February 10. A video of the rescue went viral, with many praising the kindness of those involved. The victim’s daughter expressed gratitude for the support. The accident occurred when a sedan collided with the motorcyclist, but no legal action against the driver has been reported yet.
Three-Legged Dog Heroically Saves Owner from Cobra Attack
A three-legged dog named Sato became a hero after bravely confronting a cobra that entered his owner’s home. The Bangkaew-Golden Retriever mix narrowly escaped blindness when the snake’s venom sprayed near his eyes. His owner, Tanong, joined the fight, and together they vanquished the serpent. The viral video of Sato’s heroics sparked admiration and a frenzy of lottery hopefuls seeking the house number for luck. Fortunately, Sato suffered no serious injuries and received vet treatment. His story is a testament to canine loyalty and bravery.
Thai Girl Reunites with Swiss Hero Who Saved Her After Crash
A 15-year-old Thai girl, Piyathida, reunited with Tom, a Swiss man who saved her life after a motorcycle accident in Buriram last year. Tom, who was at a barber shop, rushed to the scene, provided first aid, and ensured she was taken to the hospital. Although she survived, she lost her left eye. Piyathida and her mother, Rattanaporn, expressed deep gratitude to Tom via video call. Despite their appreciation, they remain frustrated that the pickup driver involved has only paid 1,000 baht in compensation. Piyathida remains strong, vowing to live in honour of her rescuer’s help.
Setia Alam Shooting Suspect Held Family Hostage at Gunpoint for 45 Minutes
A family in Setia Alam endured a 45-minute hostage ordeal when the suspect in a mall shooting forced them to drive him away at gunpoint. The man, his wife, and their four children were leaving the mall when the gunman appeared, fired a warning shot, and ordered them into their car. The suspect sat in the back seat, demanded they drive, and later fled by the highway after taking the car’s dashcam memory card. Police identified the suspect, a local man with 11 prior drug and criminal offences, and are actively tracking him down.
U.S. Marine Identified as Victim in Deadly Philippines Plane Crash
Sgt. Jacob M. Durham, a U.S. Marine from California, was identified as one of four people killed in a plane crash in the Philippines. The aircraft, contracted by the U.S. military, was conducting an intelligence mission supporting U.S.-Philippine security cooperation when it crashed into a rice field in Maguindanao del Sur. Witnesses reported seeing smoke and hearing an explosion before the crash. Durham, an electronic intelligence analyst with the 1st Radio Battalion, had served since 2021 and was recently promoted. The cause of the crash remains under investigation.
Indonesia Launches $183M Free Health Screening Program
Indonesia has launched a $183 million annual free health screening program to prevent early deaths, the largest initiative of its kind in the country. Citizens will be eligible for screenings on their birthdays, including blood pressure, heart disease risk, and eye tests. The program initially targets children under six and adults over 18, with a goal of screening 100 million people this year. Officials hope to promote preventive care, as many Indonesians seek medical help only when already sick. However, experts warn it could strain local health centres due to uneven distribution of resources.
Baby Elephant’s Recovery Captivates Public Attention
A baby elephant named Lomphat is making a remarkable recovery at Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Centre after being rescued from a snare injury in Cambodia. Found in critical condition at five months old, she has gained 34 kg in just two months, thanks to expert care and public support. The Ministry of Agriculture praised those who contributed supplies and donations for her recovery. Lomphat’s story has captured widespread attention due to her young age and rare status, highlighting the importance of wildlife rescue efforts.
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