Airports in Thailand will be allowed to open suspicious checked baggage without the passenger present from Friday under new regulations aimed at strengthening aviation safety.
Airports of Thailand Plc has reminded travellers that the new baggage inspection rules will take effect at all airports across the country on Friday.
The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) said the new guidelines permit authorities to open checked baggage suspected of containing prohibited items during security screening, even when the owner is not present.
Video recordings and inspection notices
Authorities will record video footage of the inspection and place a notice inside the baggage to inform the passenger that it has been opened, according to the aviation regulator.
The measures are intended to support aviation safety by allowing suspicious baggage to be inspected without requiring the passenger to be present.
Travellers advised against packing valuables
The CAAT has advised air travellers not to place valuables, important documents or prohibited items in checked baggage to avoid potential inspection.
Items prohibited in checked luggage include explosives, firearms and power banks.
Travellers should take note of the new rules before checking in their baggage at airports in Thailand.
