PATTAYA, Thailand – Pattaya is preparing for the arrival of US Navy personnel from the USS Abraham Lincoln after the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier docked at Laem Chabang Port in Chonburi on Wednesday morning. The first group of sailors is scheduled to arrive in Pattaya at about 3:30 p.m., with tourist police and other agencies deploying personnel to facilitate their journey and maintain security along the route. The USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN-72) arrived at Laem Chabang carrying thousands of US Navy personnel, who are scheduled to spend time in Pattaya during the ship’s port visit.
Tourist Police have deployed operational vehicles equipped with technology to support officers in key areas of the city. Personnel are positioned at important locations to assist with traffic, provide security and help both tourists and visiting US military personnel. Buses have also been arranged to transport sailors between Laem Chabang Port and Pattaya, with services expected to continue throughout the afternoon as personnel gradually make their way into the city.
Meanwhile, baht-buses or songtaews were seen lining up in parking areas along Pattaya Beach Road, with drivers preparing to serve the expected influx of US sailors moving around the city. Pattaya businesses, particularly beer bars and entertainment venues, have also prepared for the influx. Some venues opened from the morning to cater to tourists and the visiting sailors, with entertainment areas beginning to see increased activity during the daytime.
The arrival of thousands of US personnel is expected to bring continued activity to Pattaya throughout the port visit, providing a temporary lift for tourism businesses, transport operators and other local services. Authorities said security and visitor assistance would remain a priority throughout the visit, with agencies coordinating to keep the movement of personnel orderly and ensure a safe experience for visitors and residents.
