CAAT is prepared to monitor the investigation into the case. "Thai flight attendant" smuggling heroin into Australia and will consider action regarding the "Crew Member Certificate" if wrongdoing is confirmed, while coordinating with relevant agencies to improve procedures to prevent recurrence in the future.
On 29 June 2026, the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) issued a statement regarding CAAT reaffirming aviation security standards and monitoring the case of a Thai airline crew member involved in drug smuggling into Australia.
It stated that following reports about passenger screening at the airport, CAAT, as the civil aviation security regulator, has coordinated with airport operators and related airlines to follow up on the facts and verify operations. It confirmed that passenger and baggage screening processes at Thailand’s checkpoints are conducted under CAAT regulations, which align with the standards and recommendations of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
The purpose of aviation security screening is primarily to prevent prohibited items that may threaten the safety of aircraft, passengers, and crew from being brought onboard. Enforcement of drug laws falls under the jurisdiction of relevant authorities according to the law, requiring integrated cooperation among multiple agencies domestically and internationally. CAAT will coordinate directly with relevant agencies to collaborate on improving operational guidelines to be effective and prevent such incidents from recurring in the future.
CAAT has already coordinated with the airline to follow up on the preliminary investigation. If those involved are found guilty, CAAT will exercise its authority under aviation law, including considering action regarding the Crew Member Certificate (CMC) to maintain standards, safety, and public confidence in Thailand’s civil aviation system.
Information courtesy of the Facebook page CAAT - The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand