Bangkok:Airports of Thailand Public Company Limited (AOT) has reiterated the severe consequences of violating regulations by releasing lanterns or drones near its six airports during the Loy Krathong festival. Such violations can result in penalties as severe as the death penalty.
According to Thai News Agency, AOT is seeking cooperation from the public and passengers to refrain from releasing sky lanterns, fireworks, or flying drones during the Loy Krathong festival in 2026 for aviation safety reasons. This request applies to the areas surrounding Suvarnabhumi Airport, Don Mueang Airport, Chiang Mai Airport (CNX), Mae Fah Luang Chiang Rai Airport (CRN), Phuket Airport, and Hat Yai Airport from November 23-25, 2026.
AOT emphasizes that drone flights are prohibited within 9 kilometers of these airports unless authorized. The release of sky lanterns, paper lanterns, smoke lanterns, fireworks, firecrackers, and balloons within the air safety zone can endanger aircraft and pilot visibility, leading to potential accidents. Violations causing damage to aircraft or endangering flight safety may lead to severe penalties, including the death penalty, life imprisonment, or imprisonment from 15 to 20 years, along with fines ranging from 600,000 to 800,000 baht.
To mitigate these risks, all six airports managed by AOT have enhanced safety measures, including increased detection of Foreign Object Debris (FOD) such as sky lanterns and fireworks. Public awareness campaigns have been conducted to inform about the dangers and impacts on aviation safety.
During the Loy Krathong period, a total of 265 flights at Nakhon Si Thammarat (CNX) and Chiang Rai Airport (CRN) were affected by schedule changes. At CNX, 62 flights were cancelled, 90 flights rescheduled, and 57 special flights added. At CRN, 56 flights had their times changed. Passengers are advised to allow extra travel time and check flight statuses with airlines before departure. AOT is committed to maintaining high safety standards and aims to become a world-class aviation hub.