A Canadian man was apprehended in the northern Thai city of Chiang Mai after purportedly opening the door of a commercial plane and activating the evacuation slide prior to takeoff. The incident occurred on the evening of February 7, as reported by Chiang Mai International Airport.
According to the airport’s statement, the air traffic control tower was alerted at 10:05 p.m. that Thai Airways flight TG121, bound for Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi International Airport, was positioned on the runway awaiting departure when a passenger accessed one of the aircraft’s doors, resulting in the deployment of an evacuation slide. As a consequence, the Airbus A320 remained stationary, temporarily impeding other flight operations.
Wing Commander Ronnakorn Chalermsanyakorn, the director of Chiang Mai International Airport, explained in the statement that upon receiving the alert, airport personnel enlisted Thai Airways mechanics to remove the evacuation slide. Subsequently, the aircraft was towed back to landing pit number 15.
The director further disclosed that a total of 13 flights were affected by the incident, with eight flights forced to circle in the air until clearance for landing was granted. Overall, 2,295 passengers experienced delays due to the disruption caused by the incident.
In response to the incident, Thai Airways issued a statement indicating that mechanics promptly repaired and inspected the door in compliance with safety regulations. Subsequently, the delayed flight departed for Bangkok after midnight.
“The flight resumed its journey at 12:34 a.m. on January 8th,” the statement affirmed. “All passengers, pilots, and cabin crew remained unharmed.”
Chiang Mai Police Colonel Manuschai In-thuean, overseeing the case, informed CNN of the arrest of Wong Sai Heung, a 40-year-old Canadian citizen, at the scene. If convicted, he could potentially face severe penalties including the death penalty, imprisonment for up to 20 years, and/or a fine ranging from 600,000 to 800,000 baht (approximately US$16,700-$22,300). However, it’s noteworthy that Thailand has not executed any prisoners since 2018.
Authorities indicated that they were unaware of the suspect’s motive for opening the door but observed that he appeared stressed and exhibited difficulty in communication. “We have transferred him to the Suan Prung Psychiatric Hospital for evaluation,” mentioned Manuchai.
Police ensured the suspect’s rights during interrogations by providing legal representation and translation services as mandated by law. Investigations into the incident are ongoing.
CNN has initiated contact with the Canadian Embassy in Bangkok for further commentary.
Kindly leave your thoughts in the comments below ?
