Bangkok:The government has mandated airports in southern Thailand to enhance their response plans across 10 provinces affected by heavy rainfall, with instructions to immediately suspend flights if conditions are deemed unsafe.
According to Thai News Agency, the government is prioritizing passenger safety and has directed the Department of Airports to ensure southern Thai airports are prepared for anticipated heavy rainfall between October 24 and 26, 2026. This directive comes in response to forecasts from the Meteorological Department predicting continuous and heavy rainfall, with flood warnings issued for flash floods, landslides, and mudslides in 10 provinces, including Ranong, Phang Nga, Phuket, Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung, Songkhla, Satun, Yala, and Narathiwat.
The government, through the Ministry of Transport, has expressed its concern for public safety, instructing all airports under its jurisdiction to closely monitor the situation and adhere strictly to safety standards. Airports in the region are urged to review contingency and emergency service plans, prepare personnel and equipment, and establish coordination channels with local agencies such as air traffic control, the Provincial Electricity Authority, and the Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Agency.
Authorities are advised to integrate monitoring systems, track water levels, and implement preventive measures to minimize the impact on passenger travel. Continuous monitoring of rainfall and water levels, as well as the condition of airport facilities, is essential to ensure prompt preventive and corrective measures. In cases where safety assessments indicate that facilities are unsafe for flight operations, airports must restrict or suspend use of the affected areas. Coordination with relevant agencies is necessary to manage flights and ensure passenger safety and convenience.