AOT asks public to avoid lanterns and drones near airports during Loy Krathong

Airports of Thailand Public Company Limited (AOT) has called on residents and visitors to avoid releasing sky lanterns, fireworks and balloons near its six airports during the Loy Krathong festival from 23 to 25 November 2026, as airlines adjust arrangements for 265 flights in northern Thailand.

The appeal covers Suvarnabhumi Airport, Don Mueang International Airport, Chiang Mai International Airport, Mae Fah Luang–Chiang Rai International Airport, Phuket International Airport and Hat Yai International Airport.

AOT has also reminded the public that drone flights within nine kilometres of an airport are prohibited without authorisation.

The restrictions are intended to prevent accidents caused by objects entering airspace used by aircraft during take-off and landing.

Lanterns and fireworks pose risks to aircraft

AOT urged people not to release sky lanterns, illuminated lanterns, smoke lanterns, fireworks, firecrackers, spinning fireworks, rockets or balloons within designated aviation safety zones.

Such objects could obstruct pilots’ visibility, distract them during critical stages of flight or interfere with aircraft operations.

AOT noted that objects entering an aircraft engine or striking a fuel tank could cause serious damage, potentially leading to loss of control or an explosion.

The airport operator also highlighted the severe penalties for violations that endanger aviation safety.

Anyone whose actions damage an aircraft in service to the extent that it can no longer fly, or endanger an aircraft during flight, could face the death penalty, life imprisonment, or a prison term of 15–20 years and a fine of THB600,000–800,000. Other relevant penalties may also apply.

Airlines adjust 265 flights at northern airports

Airlines have cancelled, rescheduled or added a combined 265 flights at Chiang Mai and Mae Fah Luang–Chiang Rai airports during the festival period, according to AOT figures as of 10 November 2026.

At Chiang Mai International Airport, airlines have cancelled 62 flights, changed the departure or arrival times of 90 services and scheduled 57 additional flights.

At Mae Fah Luang–Chiang Rai International Airport, another 56 flights have been rescheduled.

AOT advised passengers travelling during the festival to check their flight status directly with their airlines before leaving home and allow two to three hours for their journey to the airport.

Airports strengthen runway safety inspections

All six AOT airports have increased the frequency of inspections for foreign object debris (FOD) on runways and taxiways.

These inspections are intended to identify and remove objects such as sky lanterns, fireworks and balloons that may drift into restricted airport areas and threaten aircraft safety.

AOT has also stepped up public information campaigns to raise awareness of the dangers associated with releasing objects into the sky near airports.

The measures form part of the company's commitment to maintaining international aviation safety standards, strengthening confidence among airlines and business partners, and supporting Thailand's ambition to become a world-class aviation hub.