THAI Smiles clarifies the words not allowed to speak at the airport because they are considered offenses with penalties, both jail term and fine, and may result in an unnecessary flight delay
Although some passengers were reported saying “Raberd or Bomb” while checking in or on board aircraft, causing several unnecessary delays frequently, some of them still uttered the word “Explosive” on board consecutively. Such offense is relating to the Act on Certain Offenses against Air transport.
Mrs Charita Leelayuth, Acting Chief Executive Officer of THAI Smile Airways Co, Ltd, revealed that in the past, THAI Smile also found that many passengers who did not know that saying “Bomb” on the aircraft carrier was found guilty under the Act on Certain Offenses against Air Transport. Penalties have been clearly prescribed in the Article 22 stating that any person who discloses a message or sends a message known to be false and that is, or is likely to cause others in the airport or those on board the aircraft during a flight to panic. The offender shall be liable to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 5 years or to a fine not exceeding 200,000 baht, or both imprisonment and fine. If the act causes a danger to the safety of the aircraft during flight, the offender shall be liable to imprisonment for a term of 5-15 years or a fine of between 200,000 and 600,000 baht or both. In cases where passengers say “Bomb” outside of the aircraft, whether speaking at the check-in counter or while boarding, they may be prosecuted and subject to the fine for causing troubles to others.
“Not only the talk with impetuousness of explosives, but the joking words should not be spoken, including air hijack and terrorism since the airport is a place where security is critical. If an officer of the airline sees or hears a message that may have such a security effect, he/she must notify the relevant authorities without exception. The airport security officers are obliged to comply with the rules of safety and related Acts in accordance with the procedures set forth. The passenger who articulates “Explosive” must be sent to the police station for further inquiry. And if the baggage has been loaded, then it must be taken out for due check again. It is a waste of time and a real impact on other passengers, particularly flight delay which will have a significant effect.”
In addition, items to be careful include valuables such as cash, iPad, camera, notebook and jewelries. They should be put in a bag and carry with you to the aircraft. They are not allowed to be loaded under the cargo, as well as all types of power banks are not granted to load under the cargo as well, but allowed to carry on the plane. There must be a power bank with capacity less than 20,000 mAh and/ or backup battery with capacity between 20,000 – 32,000 mAh (up to 2 pcs) while power banks with capacity over 32,000 mAh are prohibited. So, be cautious for these sensitive items so that your special trip can arrive at the destination save and sound,” Mrs Charita concluded.
