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Authorities Mobilize to Assist Stranded Passengers, Advise Checking Flight Status and Allow Extra Travel Time

Politic26 Sep 2026 15:30 GMT+7

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Authorities Mobilize to Assist Stranded Passengers, Advise Checking Flight Status and Allow Extra Travel Time

"Surasak" has ordered all units to mobilize assistance for stranded passengers at airports. "Phattharaphong" has instructed the Aeronautical Radio of Thailand and Department of Airports to raise measures to support nationwide flights 24 hours a day. "Zabida" has directed the Ministry of Culture to expedite surveys of ancient sites to prepare for heavy rain and flooding.


On 26 Sep 2026 GMT+7, Ms. Lalida Pertwivatana, Deputy Spokesperson of the Prime Minister's Office, stated that due to heavy rains affecting many areas and disrupting travel for citizens and tourists, Mr. Surasak Pancharoenworakul, Minister of Tourism and Sports, has urgently ordered all affiliated agencies to integrate efforts to care for, facilitate, and assist affected tourists fully. He also called for close coordination with relevant agencies to provide rapid, comprehensive assistance and minimize travel disruptions. Efforts include urgent field deployment at Suvarnabhumi Airport following numerous flight cancellations and many stranded tourists, to expedite aid and support for those affected.


Simultaneously, coordination with the Tourist Police Command and the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has established an operations center to resolve the situation, using the Tourist Police hotline 1155 as a 24-hour channel to report incidents and coordinate tourist assistance, alongside the Tourist Assistance Center (TAC), until the situation stabilizes.


Meanwhile, TAT has been working closely with hotels, accommodations, and tourism businesses to assist affected tourists, including those facing travel delays, missed flights, or needing to extend stays. They also coordinate necessary information to help tourists plan and adjust their travels appropriately. Tourists affected or needing assistance can contact the Tourist Police hotline 1155 at any time. The Ministry of Tourism and Sports will continuously monitor the situation and coordinate ongoing aid with related agencies until the situation improves.


"Phattharaphong" instructs the Aeronautical Radio of Thailand and Department of Airports to enhance measures for nationwide flight support.


Mr. Phattharaphong Phatraprasit, Deputy Minister of Transport, said he has assigned Aeronautical Radio of Thailand Ltd. (AEROTHAI) to closely monitor the unstable weather and prepare accordingly. They have implemented measures to address weather conditions potentially affecting aviation, aiming to increase safety levels and efficiency in air traffic management following International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) guidelines, to ensure maximum safety and build confidence among passengers and airlines.


He also instructed the Department of Airports (DOA) to monitor the situation closely and coordinate with airlines and related agencies to ensure safety and provide convenience for the public, prioritizing passenger safety and operational standards. All units have been directed to maintain 24-hour surveillance, prepare standby personnel to handle urgent issues, and enhance monitoring and continuous reporting of the situation.


The Department of Airports requests the public planning air travel during heavy rain periods to check flight status with their airlines before departure, allow extra time to reach the airport, and closely follow weather and route updates to plan their trips safely and suitably.



"Zabida" orders the Ministry of Culture to expedite surveys of ancient sites to prepare for heavy rain and flooding.

Ms. Zabida Thaiset, Minister of Culture, revealed that many areas are currently facing heavy rains and flooding. Concerned for the public and officials, she has urged the ministry to closely monitor the situation, quickly identify issues, and be ready to provide immediate assistance where needed. She also ordered all agencies to expedite surveys and prevention measures to protect religious sites, ancient monuments, artifacts, museums, learning centers, and cultural assets, especially in flood-prone areas, and to prepare restoration plans immediately once the situation stabilizes.


"I ask all agencies not to wait for problems to occur before taking action but to prepare in advance, monitor their areas, and report emergencies immediately. The ministry is fully ready to support all affected areas," Ms. Zabida said.