In a startling incident at Chiang Mai airport, a Canadian tourist triggered chaos aboard a Thai Airways flight bound for Bangkok by opening the emergency door just as the plane was preparing for takeoff. According to reports from local broadcaster ThaiPBS and eyewitnesses on board, the entire aircraft was thrown into disarray by the passenger’s actions.
Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic and confusion as the emergency door was opened, causing the inflatable slide to deploy. Ananya Tiangtae, a passenger on the flight, recounted the chaotic situation on Facebook, raising concerns about what could have happened if the plane had been airborne.
The incident occurred moments before the flight was set to depart for Bangkok, forcing the plane to return to the terminal. Chiang Mai Airport director Ronnakorn Chalermsaenyakorn confirmed that the disruption affected multiple flights at the airport, causing delays and inconvenience to passengers.
After the aircraft returned to the terminal, technicians conducted thorough safety inspections before clearing the plane for departure. Fortunately, all passengers and crew members were reported to be safe, and the flight eventually resumed its journey to Bangkok.
According to Thai Airways, the disruptive passenger, identified as a Canadian national, was taken into custody by local authorities. The passenger’s lawyer, Jirawat Chalermsaenyakorn, stated that his client admitted to opening the emergency door, claiming that he felt threatened by other passengers.
Thai Airways has announced that it will be pressing charges against the passenger and assessing the damages incurred due to the disruption caused. The airline expressed its commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all passengers and crew members on board its flights.
The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of adhering to safety protocols and regulations while traveling by air. Opening emergency doors without proper cause or authorization poses serious risks to the safety of passengers and can lead to severe consequences.
Authorities are continuing to investigate the incident to determine the full extent of the passenger’s actions and any potential motives behind them. Meanwhile, flights at Chiang Mai airport have resumed normal operations following the disruption caused by the incident.
Travelers are reminded to remain vigilant and cooperative with airline staff and crew members to ensure a safe and pleasant travel experience for everyone on board.
