Yi Peng lanterns prompt 108 flight cancellations in Chiang Mai
Airlines have also rescheduled 80 flights and added 105 services for November 21–28, while the airport plans shorter operating hours.
Chiang Mai International Airport says airlines have cancelled 108 flights and changed the timing of 80 others for November 21–28 because of sky lanterns released during Yi Peng. Carriers have also scheduled 105 additional services during that period.
The airport plans to shorten its operating day to about 12 hours, down from about 20. Director Group Captain Sakan Udon said on November 2 that airport data dated October 30 indicated more than 200,000 lanterns were expected within its flight safety zone during the festival.
Airline notifications received by October 30 covered 293 flight cancellations, schedule changes and additions. The airport expects daily traffic of about 210 flights during the festival, reaching up to 232 on peak days, about 10 per cent above normal.
Staff will increase airfield inspections to check for lanterns and debris. Sakan urged residents and organisers to observe provincial restrictions on lantern releases. Releases are prohibited in the Special Surveillance Level 1 red zone, which covers aircraft departure and approach paths.
The airport said it had arranged sufficient taxis, shuttle buses and rental cars for arrivals. It also plans to adjust check-in counter availability to flight schedules and provide more departure screening points.
Further cancellations or timing changes remain possible for safety reasons, the airport said. It advised passengers to verify schedules with their airlines before travelling and allow at least two hours before a domestic flight or three hours before an international departure.
