BANGKOK, Sept 30 — About 8,000 pieces of baggage remain stranded at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport after flooding disrupted airport operations, with authorities expecting to clear the backlog within three to four days as additional personnel are deployed.
Over 10,000 pieces of baggage accumulated between Sunday (September 26) and yesterday after flooding prevented Thai Airways staff from travelling to work, disrupting baggage sorting and handling operations.
Deputy Prime Minister cum Transport Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn said Thai Airways International could sort and clear up to 2,000 pieces of baggage a day when operating at full capacity.
Around 1,800 pieces have since been cleared and returned to passengers, leaving around 8,000 awaiting processing.
“Thai Airways is working to clear the backlog of both baggage and passengers, particularly transit passengers, who still make up a large number,” he told the media at Suvarnabhumi Airport today.
Phiphat added that the government has mobilised additional support, with the Royal Thai Air Force deploying 100 personnel to assist with lifting, transporting, and other baggage-handling operations.
Baggage sorting will remain with Thai Airways personnel as it requires specialised expertise, while military personnel would focus mainly on lifting and transportation.
“Baggage sorting requires specific skills and expertise. Therefore, we are adding manpower to assist with lifting and transportation so that Thai Airways staff can focus fully on tasks requiring their expertise,” he said.
Meanwhile, Thai Airways has temporarily suspended inbound, outbound and transit cargo acceptance at its Suvarnabhumi cargo terminal from today to Tuesday (October 6) as flooding continues to disrupt staff travel and warehouse operations.
The airline has also reduced some flights to ease operational pressure and clear the baggage backlog faster.
