Aeronautical Radio of Thailand confirms that the PM 2.5 dust situation in the northern region and Chiang Mai maintains aviation visibility within the standard of 1,200 meters, assuring safe takeoffs and landings while supporting royal rainmaking missions to extinguish forest fires.
Mr. Surachai Nuprom, Deputy Senior Executive Director and Acting Senior Executive Director of Aeronautical Radio of Thailand Ltd. (ART) revealed that the haze and fine particulate matter PM 2.5 covering Chiang Mai and other upper northern provinces have reduced aviation visibility. However, it remains within the standard that allows aircraft to safely take off and land, without affecting overall flight services. The lowest visibility dropped to 1,200 meters, with a daily average of around 6-7 kilometers. This is still above the minimum standard for landing with an Instrument Landing System (ILS) Category 1, which requires visibility not less than 800 meters.
Mr. Surachai added that ART closely monitors the situation and has prepared measures in case visibility falls below standards. They have planned air traffic management and coordinated readiness to provide services if flight route changes to alternate airports are requested. Additionally, ART supports the operations of the Royal Rainmaking and Agricultural Aviation Department, Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives, in conducting weather modification flights to alleviate haze and PM 2.5 issues in the upper northern provinces including Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Lampang, Tak, and Mae Hong Son since 3 April 2026. ART also supports government agencies' flights for surveying and controlling forest fires, a major cause of haze in the area.
ART continues to support all sectors working to resolve the PM 2.5 problem, alongside driving government and Ministry of Transport policies to improve citizens' quality of life and promote sustainable, environmentally friendly development. The company reaffirms that air traffic management remains efficient, prioritizing the highest safety for passengers and the public.
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