Thai Airways Baggage Delays Spark Government Criticism
Tourism Minister Surasak Phancharoenworakul has criticized Thai Airways for significant baggage handling delays at Suvarnabhumi Airport, prompting the deployment of military personnel to assist.
On September 29, 2026, Thailand’s Minister of Tourism and Sports, Surasak Phancharoenworakul, publicly addressed severe baggage handling issues affecting Thai Airways passengers at Suvarnabhumi Airport. According to Khaosod Online, the Minister reported that passengers have faced wait times exceeding five to six hours due to operational inefficiencies.
Minister Surasak noted that Thai Airways’ baggage handling services have been overwhelmed, partly because the airline has been managing ground services for other carriers. Furthermore, heavy rainfall recently prevented essential ground staff from reaching the airport, leading to a significant accumulation of unclaimed luggage.
In response to the crisis, over 100 military personnel were deployed to assist with the backlog. However, the Minister expressed frustration regarding the lack of basic provisions, such as food and accommodation, for these assisting troops. He has called on the Ministry of Finance to intervene and hold the airline’s board accountable, citing damage to the nation’s tourism image.
For travelers and residents, this situation highlights potential risks of extended wait times and luggage delays when flying with the national carrier during adverse weather conditions. While military support is currently being utilized to clear the backlog, it remains to be confirmed how long these delays will persist and what long-term operational changes the airline will implement to prevent future occurrences.
