THAI Reschedules Flights During Loy Krathong Festivities

11th Nov 2015

Thai Airways International (THAI) announced that it will reschedule some of its flights towards the northern part of Thailand. The decision was in anticipation of the annual Loy Krathong festivities on November 25 when, by way of tradition, floating lanterns are set free above the skies.

Airline officials said that flight schedules involving destinations in the north like Chiang Mai would be affected. However, said rescheduling will only apply during the four-day period beginning November 24 and ending November 27.

For many centuries now, Thailand has been celebrating the Loy Krathong festival which also heralds the close of the rainy season. At this time of the year, thousands of people gather around lakes and rivers to set free a multitude of paper lanterns into the evening sky. Some float flowers and special candles across the waters.

For the people of Thailand, this is one of the traditional ways of keeping bad omens at bay throughout the year. However, some are also wary of the danger it brings. Floating lanterns are fire hazards and can compromise flight safety. The same is very true with fireworks especially when not handled by experts.

Last year, Thailand authorities have cautioned its citizens to avoid floating these lanterns near airports. They were also warned of the possibility of facing death penalty or serving prison term when caught in the act. Airlines have also either banned flights or changed schedules, similar to what THAI has done of late.

Meanwhile, Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) announced Monday that it has restricted the selling of sky lanterns on November 25, 2015.

An official of the BMA justified that banning of khom loy lanterns as well as fireworks will help prevent fire and aviation hazards from happening.

This year, the festival will be held in key areas in Thailand including, Nawamin Piron Park, Santi Chaiprakarn Park, and Lumpini Park, among others.

Related News

Bangkok Airways to Resurrect Vital Flight Routes to Northern Thailand

Thai Vietjet Air: Exclusive May Offers for FUN Rewards Members

Hua Hin Airport anticipates surge in international flights after expansion

No more flights to Mae Hong Son

Related Travel Guide Articles

Chiang Mai's Food Odyssey: Street Eats to Gourmet Feasts

6 Steps to Grabbing Cheap Flights - DomesticFlightsThailand

Getting Around Bangkok