BANGKOK, THAILAND – Thailand’s transport ministry ordered nationwide checks of baggage scales at regional airports to protect passengers and bolster flight safety ahead of the 2026 New Year travel rush.
Nationwide checks ordered at regional airports
Deputy transport minister Mallika Chiraphanwanit instructed all regional airports to have their baggage scales inspected so passengers could rely on the displayed weight and not be overcharged due to faulty equipment. All airports under the Department of Airports (DOA) were told to cooperate immediately with regional trade supervision offices.
“We must ensure that every scale complies with legal standards. This serves passengers and safety.”
said the minister.
Concerns over unfair excess baggage fees
The directive followed concern that inaccurate scales could lead to unjustified excess baggage charges, affecting millions of travelers. The campaign was launched in time for the peak holiday season to reduce disputes at check-in counters and ensure transparent weighing procedures.
Early inspections show compliant equipment
The first inspections had already taken place at airports in Nan Nakhon, Roi Et, Khon Kaen, Nakhon Si Thammarat and Udon Thani, where experts checked the devices. The airports worked with specialized calibration centers, with Khon Kaen Airport partnering the northeastern calibration center and Nakhon Si Thammarat cooperating with the southern center in Surat Thani.
“All baggage scales are operational and meet the required accuracy standards.”
said Danai Rueangsorn, DOA director-general.
Accuracy tied directly to flight safety
Officials stressed that the campaign was not only about fair costs but also about safety, as an aircraft’s total weight is a critical factor for safe operations. Inaccurate baggage scales could cause airlines to miscalculate take-off weight, which in the worst case could endanger the stability of the aircraft.
Benefits for passengers at check-in
For passengers, the checks were meant to ensure that the displayed weight of their luggage was correct. This was expected to reduce stress and arguments at check-in and make the process more efficient and faster.
Programme to cover all 29 DOA airports
The DOA said the already inspected airports were only the beginning and announced it would speed up the verification programme. All 29 airports under its authority, including popular destinations such as Chiang Rai, Hua Hin and Sukhothai, were to be checked before the major travel surge.
“Our top priority is the greatest possible comfort and the trust of all passengers.”
said director-general Danai.
Signal on quality and fairness to operators
The nationwide initiative was also presented as a clear warning to airlines and airport operators that the ministry took quality and fairness seriously. In the wake of scandals in other countries, Thailand aimed to proactively reinforce its image as a hospitable and safe travel destination, assuring domestic travelers that the airport scales they used had been freshly calibrated.