Bangkok: Monporn has urged the Aeronautical Radio of Thailand to implement measures to cope with the tropical storm "Wipha," closely monitoring the unstable weather conditions that may affect flights.
According to Thai News Agency, Mrs. Manop Charoensri, Deputy Minister of Transport, announced that the tropical storm Wipha, originating from China, is currently intensifying and is expected to impact Thailand's northern, northeastern, and central regions between 20-24 July. These areas are likely to experience heavy rainfall, potentially affecting flight visibility. Flash floods could also impact numerous regions. In response, Mrs. Charoensri has tasked Aeronautical Radio of Thailand Co., Ltd. (AEROTHAI) with monitoring the weather situation and preparing for potential disruptions. The measures aim to enhance the safety and efficiency of air traffic management, adhering to the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) guidelines to ensure passenger confidence and aircraft safety in line with government and Ministry of Transport policies.
Mr. Surachai Nuprom, Deputy Managing Director and Acting Director of AOT, stated that AOT is actively coordinating and monitoring aviation meteorological data to strategize air traffic management and prepare for potential impacts from Tropical Storm 'Wipha.' The preparations cover four main areas: impacts on air traffic services and flight operations, such as weather avoidance and flight route adjustments; impacts on air navigation facilities, with a focus on adverse events like power outages and flooding; impacts on airport infrastructure like runways and taxiways, ensuring coordination with airports and relevant agencies; and impacts on company buildings, ensuring the usability and stability of air traffic control towers and related structures. Air traffic management guidelines have been established to ensure flight convenience, agility, and maximum safety.
Furthermore, all agencies have been instructed to monitor at-risk provinces and provide assistance in the event of flooding that disrupts road access, ensuring constant preparedness and surveillance. Passengers traveling during this period might encounter flight delays due to heavy rain or unstable weather conditions. The public is advised to follow announcements from the Meteorological Department and updates from airlines and airports concerning flight schedule changes or cancellations. Additional travel time is recommended to ensure timely travel.