PATTAYA, Thailand – The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has opened the Tourism Crisis Monitoring Center to monitor rising tensions in the Middle East. The center integrates global tourism data, assesses economic impacts, and coordinates urgent assistance for travelers affected by flight cancellations.
TAT Governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool stated that overseas offices are providing real-time reports as several Middle Eastern nations close their airspace. The center has developed two main response plans: short-term communication management and mid-term market recovery. These measures aim to protect tourists and support a rapid recovery of the industry once conditions improve.
Preliminary assessments indicate that 59 flights between Thailand and the Middle East have been canceled at major hubs, including Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, Chiang Mai, Phuket, and Krabi. Affected airlines include Emirates, Qatar Airways, Etihad, Gulf Air, and El Al. This disruption coincides with Ramadan, when travel from the Middle East typically experiences a slowdown.
To support affected passengers, TAT is coordinating with airport authorities and the Tourist Police. Suvarnabhumi Airport has deployed additional staff, set up help points, and provided complimentary water and rest areas. Most airlines have arranged alternative accommodations for passengers, reducing the number stranded in terminals. TAT has also instructed domestic offices to assist displaced tourists and is preparing marketing efforts targeting secondary high-potential markets to offset the temporary decline in arrivals from the Middle East. (NNT)
