BANGKOK, Thailand – Residents in Bangkok and surrounding urban communities may notice more aircraft flying overhead or hear increased aircraft noise during certain periods this winter as seasonal wind changes prompt adjustments to flight paths at Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang airports.
Deputy Transport Minister Phattharapong Phattharaprasit said the government had instructed Aeronautical Radio of Thailand (AEROTHAI) and relevant agencies to monitor weather conditions, prepare flight management measures and keep the public informed, while prioritizing aviation safety and minimizing impacts on communities around airports.
AEROTHAI board member Panya Chupanich said the Meteorological Department expects the 2026 winter season to begin about a week later than usual, around mid-November, and continue until mid-February 2027. Weather conditions are also expected to be influenced by a strong El Niño phenomenon.
During winter, winds generally change direction and blow from the northeast. When wind direction and speed exceed operational thresholds, aircraft must take off and land facing into the wind to meet aviation safety standards.
As a result, AEROTHAI may adjust aircraft take-off and landing directions at Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang airports to match prevailing wind conditions. Some flight paths may consequently pass over parts of Bangkok and nearby urban communities, particularly along northbound and southbound approaches.
Panya stressed that increased aircraft movements over certain neighborhoods would be a seasonal operational adjustment caused by prevailing winds, rather than an abnormal situation. AEROTHAI is coordinating closely with the Meteorological Department to monitor weather conditions and inform airlines and pilots of changes to flight paths and runway operating directions, while maintaining aviation safety and air traffic service standards.
