Chiang Mai International Airport Prepares for Yi Peng Festival Amidst Flight Safety Concerns

Strategic Insights -

Airports of Thailand's Chiang Mai International Airport is taking proactive measures to ensure the safety of passengers and staff during the Yi Peng or Loy Krathong Festival celebrations. As of October 31, 2025, 161 flights have been cancelled or rescheduled due to the festival, with 65 cancellations and 96 schedule changes. To accommodate the surge in passengers, the airport has deployed additional staff and promoted the use of self-service facilities. Extra runway and taxiway inspections will be conducted daily to remove lantern debris, and rapid-response teams will be on standby to clear debris. The airport has also implemented random alcohol testing among airside staff and decorated its terminals with natural materials and Lanna handicrafts.

Key Takeaways:

  • Flight operations will end by 7.00 pm on November 5-6, 2025, to avoid the period when sky lanterns are released, which could pose risks to aviation safety.
  • Passenger traffic is expected to exceed 32,000 travellers per day, up 17% from normal levels, with 161 flights cancelled or rescheduled as of October 31, 2025.
  • The airport has deployed additional staff, including security personnel, to assist passengers and promote the use of self-service facilities.
  • Rapid-response teams will be on standby to clear debris immediately upon notification from air traffic control or pilots.
  • Security agencies are conducting random alcohol testing among airside staff to maintain the highest safety standards.
  • The airport has increased runway and taxiway inspections from six to eight times per day to remove any lantern debris.
  • 44 special flights have been added to accommodate returning passengers after the festival.
  • Airlines have rescheduled flights to finish before 7.00 pm, resulting in busier flight operations during the daytime.
  • Passengers are advised to allow extra travel time and follow airport staff instructions carefully to ensure smooth and safe travel.

Statistics:

  • 161 flights have been cancelled or rescheduled as of October 31, 2025.
  • 65 flights have been cancelled, with 41 domestic and 24 international flights affected.
  • 96 flights have been rescheduled, with 64 domestic and 32 international flights affected.
  • 44 special flights have been added to accommodate returning passengers after the festival.
  • Passenger traffic is expected to exceed 32,000 travellers per day, up 17% from normal levels.

Sources:

  • "Schedule Adjustments for Yi Peng Festival". Chiang Mai International Airport, 2025.
  • "Airport Director Announces Flight Safety Precautions during Yi Peng Festival". Airports of Thailand, 2025.
  • "Yi Peng Festival Safety Measures". Chiang Mai International Airport, 2025.