Thairath Online
Thairath Online

CAAT Advises Passengers to Check Flights and Plan Ahead as Middle East Air Routes Face Restrictions

Governmentpolicy03 Mar 2026 18:19 GMT+7

Share article

CAAT Advises Passengers to Check Flights and Plan Ahead as Middle East Air Routes Face Restrictions

The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) is monitoring the Middle East conflict situation and confirms that Thai flights continue operating normally. Passengers are advised to stay updated and plan ahead.

As the Middle East conflict intensifies, several countries have closed or restricted airspace, including major transit airports, forcing some airlines to temporarily suspend flights or reroute to avoid security risks.

CAAT has been closely monitoring the situation and coordinating continuously with airlines, airports, and related agencies. They assess that Thai flights can still operate normally, with management measures adjusted appropriately to the situation.

CAAT recommends passengers check their flight status with airlines before going to the airport and allow at least three hours for international flights. Passengers should also follow announcements from airlines and airports closely.

Flights on European routes that do not transit through the Middle East continue operating normally. Most Thai and European airlines have prepared alternative flight plans in advance, allowing continued service. However, travel time may increase due to detours, and higher traffic on alternative routes could cause some delays.

Flights to Middle Eastern countries or passengers transiting through the region currently face restrictions on many routes. Flights to Israel, Iran, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait are not operating normally, with some only running special flights to repatriate stranded passengers.

Flights to Oman are still mostly available but under close monitoring. Passengers holding tickets for these routes should contact airlines directly for schedule changes or refunds as per conditions. Those who purchased through agents should coordinate through them or consult airlines for guidance.

Since many Middle Eastern transit hubs remain unavailable, seat availability on European and alternative routes has decreased. While there are still sufficient seats, budget fares may sell out faster than usual.

CAAT advises travelers to plan and book tickets early instead of waiting until close to departure to reduce risks of missing desired prices and schedules.

If flights are canceled or passengers arrive at the airport without being able to travel, those flying domestically or departing Thailand are protected under CAAT Regulation No. 101 on passenger rights for scheduled flights, both domestic and international.

CAAT has ordered airlines to strictly comply with these regulations and will conduct ongoing inspections. Passengers encountering service issues can file complaints through the website.https://complaint.caat.or.th

/Read more news " Government Policy "