BANGKOK, Thailand – Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) confirmed that Emirates flight EK373, operating from Suvarnabhumi Airport to Dubai on an Airbus A380, was unable to continue taxiing on taxiway E21 at 9:11 p.m. on November 2, 2026.
In response, the airport coordinated with Bangkok Flight Services (BFS), the aircraft’s ground handling service provider, to dispatch an aircraft towing vehicle to move the aircraft from the affected area. The aircraft was successfully relocated at 10:18 p.m. and departed at 10:22 p.m.
A subsequent inspection revealed damage to sections of taxiway E21. The damage is thought to have resulted from prolonged heavy rainfall and flooding in several areas surrounding the airport, which resulted in increased water accumulation beneath the ground surface. This may have affected the structural integrity of certain sections of the taxiway, causing damage under the weight of the aircraft.
Suvarnabhumi Airport immediately inspected taxiway E21 and the surrounding areas and put an urgent repair plan in place. Repair work is scheduled to begin at 7:00 p.m. on November 3, 2026, and continue until 8:00 a.m. on November 6, 2026. This timeframe includes both the repair work and the necessary curing period to ensure the repaired surface has achieved sufficient strength before being returned to service.
Meanwhile, Suvarnabhumi Airport is preparing to open the newly completed extension of taxiway D, located near the affected area. The facility is currently undergoing inspection by the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT). Once approved, it will provide an additional route for aircraft accessing runway 02R-20L.
During the temporary closure of the affected taxiway, Suvarnabhumi Airport will coordinate closely with the Air Traffic Control Tower and Aeronautical Radio of Thailand Ltd. (AEROTHAI) to manage aircraft arrivals and departures using the two remaining runways. AEROTHAI has confirmed that the remaining runways have sufficient capacity to accommodate Suvarnabhumi Airport’s flight operations. These arrangements are expected to ensure continuity of overall airport services without disruption.
The safety of passengers, aircraft, and all flight operations remain Suvarnabhumi Airport’s highest priority. The airport will continue to strengthen its inspection and maintenance measures, alongside the necessary repairs, to ensure safe and efficient operations and maintain confidence among airlines and passengers. (Story, Photos: Suvarnabhumi Airport official Facebook)
