Chiang Mai Airport has announced changes to its flight schedule during the Loy Krathong festival, with adjustments affecting up to 160 flights on November 27-28.
The move comes as a precautionary measure to minimize the risk associated with flying Yi Peng lanterns. According to Mr. Wisoot Kamyod, Deputy Director of Chiang Mai Airport, a total of 160 flights will either be canceled or rescheduled, accounting for 47% of all flights operating during the festival.
Of the affected flights, 101 will be canceled, comprising 77 domestic and 24 international flights. Additionally, 59 flights will be rescheduled, with 51 being domestic and 8 international flights.
It is emphasized that these alterations and cancellations are not expected to significantly impact passenger services, as the airlines have informed passengers about these changes in advance. Passengers are advised to plan their travel to the airport during this period due to expected congestion throughout the day.
The airport has increased the frequency of runway inspections and patrols from the previous four times a day to ten times a day. This is to check for remnants of flying lanterns that may have fallen in the airport area. Airport staff will also be vigilant in monitoring the collection of sky and smoke lanterns, ready to promptly respond to notifications from air traffic control or pilots. (TNA)
