Thai Airways cancels 22 flights and reports 52-flight baggage backlog at Suvarnabhumi amid severe floods

Severe flooding across Thailand has severely disrupted air and ground travel, culminating in major flight cancellations and baggage delays at the country's primary aviation hub. On September 29, Thai Airways announced the cancellation of 22 flights across 10 routes scheduled for September 29 and 30, according to Thansettakij (in Thai).

The airline is also struggling to clear a massive baggage backlog affecting 52 flights at Suvarnabhumi Airport. The delays stem from severe staff shortages caused by the floods, prompting the airline to request military vehicles to transport employees to work.

The travel chaos follows a government declaration classifying all 50 districts of Bangkok and 25 other provinces as disaster zones. The Prime Minister has called an emergency cabinet meeting to consider declaring a special public holiday to help residents cope with the crisis, Khaosod reports (in Thai).

What this means for your travel plans

If you are flying out of or into Bangkok this week, you must prepare for significant disruptions.

• Verify your flight: Thai Airways has specifically cancelled routes serving Khon Kaen, Phuket, Hanoi, and Singapore. Check directly with your carrier before heading to the airport.
• Pack essentials in your carry-on: With 52 flights experiencing baggage delays at Suvarnabhumi, ensure your medications, documents, and a change of clothes are in your cabin bag.
• Monitor backup airports: The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand has coordinated with the Navy to open U-Tapao Airport as a backup facility for diverted flights.

Road closures and local impacts

Ground transportation is equally affected. The Expressway Authority of Thailand reports that access points at Bang Bo and Muang Thong Thani are currently impassable for small vehicles. Additionally, interprovincial van and minibus services on 13 routes have been suspended due to high water levels.

For expats purchasing supplies, the Ministry of Commerce has implemented strict price controls on essential goods. Vendors are prohibited from price gouging and must display prices clearly. If you encounter inflated prices, you can report the vendor to the Department of Internal Trade hotline at 1569.