Latest news with #AirNavigationAct
Bangkok Post
20-07-2025
- Politics
- Bangkok Post
DSI probes unlawful VIP runway
The Department of Special Investigation (DSI)'s Natural Resources and Environment Crime Division yesterday unveiled its findings regarding a private airfield, dubbed the "VIP Runway," in Pak Chong, Nakhon Ratchasima. It is now awaiting crucial clarifications from five government agencies concerning the alleged unlawful conversion of a public road into a private airstrip, it said. The probe was launched following a complaint by lawyer Phattarapong Supakson, who claimed a public road had been converted for use as a temporary private runway. DSI investigators found the airstrip to be 19 metres wide and 1 kilometre long but, crucially, overlapping with a 450-metre section of public road, which was now part of a private golf course. Initial reports placed the land under the Khanong Phra Tambon Administrative Organisation (TAO), but further review confirmed it is part of the Lam Takhong self-help settlement area and no construction permits for a runway have been submitted for the site since 2007. The DSI said it is awaiting documents from five agencies: Khanong Phra TAO, the Land Department, Lam Takhong Community, Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand and the Nakhon Ratchasima Provincial Land Reform Office. The Lam Takhong community has filed a police complaint, asserting the airfield was built without approval from the Department of Social Development and Welfare, which oversees the settlement. Historical aerial photos from 1974 and 1999 confirm the road's longstanding public use. Once all documents are reviewed, the DSI plans to summon the owners of the airfield and golf course. A politician is suspected of seeking permits after the airfield was already built, around 2012, based on aerial evidence. The golf course is reportedly owned by the politician's sister. The DSI said the investigation centres on land encroachment, unauthorised land use and unapproved construction. Laws affected include the Building Control Act, Forestry Act, Agricultural Land Reform Act, Air Navigation Act and the Land Allocation for Livelihood Act. The DSI will also examine any illegal transfer, lease or sale of land rights. Despite local complaints and recent sightings of aircraft at the site, authorities have yet to take action. The DSI is seeking an explanation from the TAO regarding their handling of these concerns.
The Star
17-05-2025
- The Star
Thai govt enforces strict ban on rocket launches near airports during Bun Bang Fai Festival
BANGKOK: The government, through the Transport Ministry, has instructed the Department of Airports to implement strict safety measures and public awareness campaigns regarding the launch of Bang Fai rockets, fireworks, fire lanterns, smoke lanterns, and similar airborne objects during the annual Bun Bang Fai (Rocket Festival), held across northeastern provinces between May and June. The festival, known for its local cultural significance, has evolved into a competitive event where rockets are launched to greater heights, raising serious safety concerns for aviation and public safety. Deputy Government Spokesperson Karom Phonphonklang stated on Saturday that this year, the government is emphasising strict enforcement of air safety regulations around airports, aircraft flight paths, and surrounding areas. The objective is to prevent threats to aircraft operations, pilot visibility, and public safety. Mandatory permission and coordination required Karom said anyone wishing to launch rockets must obtain prior approval from local officials at the subdistrict, district, or provincial level. Once permission is granted, officials must notify the nearest airport at least 7–15 working days in advance, including full names and contact numbers of at least two coordination persons, and exact coordinates of the launch site (latitude and longitude). This information will be used to issue pilot advisories and ensure ongoing coordination with air traffic control during launch activities, he said. Severe penalties for violations Karom warned that unauthorised rocket launches can result in a maximum penalty of five years' imprisonment, a fine of up to 200,000 baht, or both. In severe cases—such as if the act damages an aircraft in service or endangers flight safety—the penalty may escalate to death, life imprisonment, or 15–20 years' imprisonment, along with a fine between 600,000 and 800,000 baht, under Section 59/1 of the Air Navigation Act B.E. 2497 (1954). The government urges full compliance from communities and festival organisers to ensure public safety and avoid aviation risks during this festive season, he added. - The Nation/ANN
South China Morning Post
15-05-2025
- South China Morning Post
Singapore jails drunk passenger who went berserk on Scoot flight
A man was jailed for five weeks on Wednesday for an episode of 'air rage' during which he had to be physically restrained on a Scoot flight from Australia to Singapore Advertisement Kolathu James Leo, 42, pleaded guilty to one count of boarding a plane in such a state of intoxication that he jeopardised the good order and discipline required on the flight. The offence under the Air Navigation Act carries a jail term of up to a year, a fine of up to S$20,000 (US$15,370) or both penalties. He faced two other charges of criminal force and harassment – by grabbing a crew member's wrist and threatening to kill him – that were considered for sentencing. The court heard that Kolathu, who lived in Canberra, was on Scoot flight TR3 from Sydney to Singapore on February 27. Advertisement He was due to transit through Singapore on the way to India, after having recently received news that his uncle had died there.
