On November 11, Kirati Kitmanawat, CEO of Airports of Thailand (AOT), warned of potential dangers associated with lantern releases near airports during the Loy Krathong (Yi Peng) festival, celebrated on November 15, 2024. To ensure flight safety, AOT, which oversees six airports including Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, Chiang Mai, Mae Fah Luang-Chiang Rai, Phuket, and Hat Yai, cautioned the public about releasing lanterns, fireworks, balloons, drones, and laser beams, as these can impair pilot visibility, disrupt aircraft control, and cause serious accidents, potentially leading to explosions or other fatal incidents.
Per the 1954 Air Navigation Act, individuals are strictly prohibited from launching any flying objects within airport safety zones. Violations can result in a maximum penalty of five years’ imprisonment or a fine of up to 200,000 baht. Any act causing damage to aircraft in operation may lead to life imprisonment, 15–20 years' imprisonment, or even the death penalty, with fines ranging from 600,000 to 800,000 baht.
For areas outside safety zones, prior approval must be obtained from local authorities, and in high-risk zones, such as near Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai airports, releases are only allowed at specific times. Chiang Mai permits lantern releases on November 15-16, from 7:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m., and smoke lanterns from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Chiang Rai will allow releases from November 14-16, from 9:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m., with smoke lanterns between 10:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m.
Due to these precautions, 154 flights at Chiang Mai Airport have been affected, including 66 cancellations and 88 schedule adjustments. Additionally, 16 special flights have been added for the festival period.
AOT also encourages cultural preservation and will decorate airport terminals with traditional Loy Krathong elements, providing photo areas, a Krathong floating ceremony, and a beauty contest to enhance travelers’ cultural experience.