Chiang Mai:Chiang Mai Airport has announced changes to its flight schedules and special flight numbers in anticipation of the Yi Peng Festival, also known as the Loy Krathong Festival, from November 21 to 28.
According to Thai News Agency, Air Commodore Sakarn Udon, Director of Chiang Mai Airport, stated that the Yi Peng and Loy Krathong festivals, taking place on November 24-25, 2026, will involve the release of over 200,000 sky lanterns and smoke lanterns within the air safety zone of the airport. This necessitates a reduction in the airport's operating hours from 20 to approximately 12 hours daily to ensure air safety.
Coordination with airlines as of October 30, 2026, has resulted in adjustments to flight schedules. During the festival period, 108 flights will be canceled, 80 flight times will be altered, and 105 special flights will be added. This is expected to create flight congestion and an increased number of passengers at the terminal.
Moreover, Chiang Mai Airport has issued warnings to pilots and air crews about the lantern release timings. The airport has increased inspection frequencies to monitor and prevent sky lanterns and foreign objects from entering the airport area. Airlines have been advised to avoid flying during the specified lantern release periods November 24, 2026, from 1000 AM to 1200 PM, and November 24-25, 2026, from 700 PM to 100 AM the following day.