BANGKOK, Thailand – Authorities are preparing all 22 national airports for potential emergencies with a series of nationwide drills.
Ministerial Order for Large-Scale Drill at 22 Airports
Deputy Minister of Transport Phatthaphong Phatthaprasit is taking airport security seriously. He has instructed the Department of Airports to conduct comprehensive emergency exercises at all 22 airports under the ministry’s jurisdiction. The training aims to significantly improve staff response capabilities beyond routine procedures.
The deputy minister emphasized that air traffic is a vital link for the economy and society. Therefore, security, being the core element, must be continuously strengthened to protect citizens’ lives and property in the event of an actual incident.
Deputy Transport Minister Travels to Nakhon Phanom
Phatthaphong will personally inaugurate the series of drills. On June 27, 2026, he will lead the opening ceremony of the full exercise at Nakhon Phanom Airport and assess operational readiness firsthand.
His visit will include an inspection of the airport’s safety and protection systems, as well as an evaluation of services provided to the public. His primary goal is to sustainably solidify the confidence of passengers and airport operators in Thai aviation.
The Purpose Behind the Mandatory Program
The planned measures are designated as “Full-scale exercises,” meaning realistic, comprehensive drills. These are not optional but a mandatory commitment to perfect the collaboration of all involved parties during a crisis.
The scenarios will be tailored individually for each of the 22 locations. The objective is clear: seamless integration between government agencies and private partners, ensuring that all emergency services, from the fire department to the police, can work efficiently hand-in-hand in a crisis.
Civil Aviation Authority and ICAO Set Standards
Director-General Danai Rueangson stated that the exercises comply with the national security standards of the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand. The directive is explicit: every airport must conduct such a major emergency drill at least once every two years.
Furthermore, the ministry adheres to the international guidelines set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). Annexes 14 and 17 of the Chicago Convention serve as the correct framework for optimal preparedness in the face of an actual incident.
These 22 Airports Practice for Emergencies
The drills will be spread across the entire country, including destinations popular with tourists. The list features airports in Krabi, Surat Thani, Udon Thani, Ubon Ratchathani, Khon Kaen, and the picturesque Pai. Smaller airports such as Nan Nakhon and the border town of Mae Sot are also included. From Chumphon to Narathiwat, and from Loei to Trang, the scale of this nationwide operation aims to demonstrate that Thailand possesses a safe and standardized aviation system, ready to support the growing air traffic of the future.
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