BANGKOK, Thailand – Airports of Thailand (AOT) has urged residents and visitors to avoid releasing sky lanterns, lighting fireworks or flying drones near its six airports during the Loy Krathong festival from November 23–25, 2026, warning that such activities could pose serious risks to aircraft and flight safety.
The advisory covers Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, Chiang Mai, Mae Fah Luang Chiang Rai, Phuket and Hat Yai airports. The public is asked to refrain from releasing sky lanterns, smoke balloons, fireworks, rockets, firecrackers and other airborne objects within designated aviation safety zones. Drone operations are also prohibited within nine kilometres of airports unless prior permission has been granted.
AOT warned that airborne objects could obstruct pilots’ visibility, distract flight crews or interfere with aircraft control. Lanterns or fireworks entering an aircraft engine or striking its fuel tank could also cause severe damage and potentially lead to an accident.
Under aviation law, violations that damage an aircraft in service and prevent it from flying, or endanger an aircraft during flight, can carry severe penalties, including the death penalty, life imprisonment or imprisonment of 15–20 years and fines of 600,000–800,000 baht, alongside other applicable penalties.
All six AOT airports have introduced additional safety measures, including more frequent inspections for foreign object debris (FOD) on runways, taxiways and other operational areas. These inspections will help detect lanterns, fireworks, balloons and other objects that may enter airport grounds. Public awareness campaigns are also being conducted to highlight the dangers of these activities to aviation.
Meanwhile, airlines have adjusted a total of 265 flights at Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai airports during the festival period, according to information available on November 10. At Chiang Mai Airport, 62 flights have been cancelled, 90 have had their schedules changed and 57 additional special flights have been added. At Chiang Rai Airport, 56 flights have had their schedules adjusted.
AOT advises passengers travelling during the period to arrive at airports two to three hours before departure and check their flight status with their airlines before setting out. The company said the additional precautions reflect its commitment to maintaining the highest aviation safety standards and supporting Thailand’s ambition to become a world-class aviation hub. (TNA)
