CHIANG MAI, Nov 23 – Chiang Mai Airport requested the public to release their traditional festive airborne lanterns at fixed hours to avoid negatively impacting aviation.
Woradej Harnprasert, Director-General of the Civil Aviation Department and Chiang Mai Airport management told a news conference at Chiang Mai Air Traffic Control Centre, asking for the public cooperation in launching the paper flame-bearing lanterns at requested hours during the Loy Krathong festival from November 27-29.
The launching of the lanterns is popular during the festival and helps promote tourism in this northern province.
As a result, for the safety of aircraft, the airport issued special hours for the lantern release from 6.30-7.30pm and after 9.30pm. Releasing lanterns near the airport is banned.
Seven airlines offering more than 30 daily flights have already adjusted their flight schedules after 6pm as some areas start celebrating with releasing lanterns.
