Bangkok: The Ministry of Transport has issued a stern warning against joking or making threatening remarks about aviation on flights, highlighting that such actions carry severe penalties. Phatarapong, a key ministry official, warned that statements threatening aviation can lead to severe consequences, including imprisonment and fines reaching hundreds of thousands of baht. The Department of Airports is tasked with informing passengers about these serious repercussions.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Pattarapong Pattaraprasit, Deputy Minister of Transport, underscored the urgency of the matter. He referenced a recent incident involving a passenger who falsely claimed there was an explosive device on board a Thai AirAsia flight, AIQ 4401, in Krabi. He stressed that the Department of Airports should promptly educate passengers traveling through airports under its jurisdiction. Making false statements or jokes about aviation threats, even if unintentional, is a violation of the Aviation Offenses Act B.E. 2558 (2015).
Legal penalties are stringent. Any individual making a false statement that causes panic at an airport or on board an aircraft could face imprisonment for up to 5 years, a fine up to 200,000 baht, or both. If such statements jeopardize the safety of an aircraft during service, the penalties escalate to imprisonment ranging from 5 to 10 years, a fine from 200,000 to 600,000 baht, or both.
Phatarapong highlighted the critical nature of safety in aviation. Every threat-related statement is meticulously scrutinized as it influences the decision-making of pilots and air traffic control, potentially affecting flight operations, leading to cancellations, delays, and damaging the aviation system overall. He reiterated to the Department of Airports the importance of communicating to passengers that aviation safety is not a subject of humor. Inappropriate language can result in legal action and jeopardize the safety of all on board.
Mr. Danai Ruangson, Director-General of the Department of Airports, has directed all affiliated airports to display informational signs in both Thai and other languages at prominent locations, such as check-in counters and security checkpoints. Additionally, audio announcements within passenger terminals and updates via the agency's social media platforms will continuously inform passengers. The Department of Airports urges all travelers to adhere strictly to regulations to ensure safe and smooth travel experiences.