Tourexpi
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has activated
its Tourism Crisis Monitoring Centre to closely monitor escalating tensions in
the Middle East and to coordinate immediate support for travellers affected by
flight disruptions. The centre serves as an integrated operations hub,
consolidating intelligence, assessing potential impacts and working with
relevant agencies to assist affected passengers.
Ms Thapanee Kiatphaibool, Governor of TAT, stated: “In
response to airspace closures across parts of the Middle East, TAT has
mobilised its overseas offices to provide continuous updates and activated the
Tourism Crisis Monitoring Centre as the central mechanism for analysis and
response. Two operational scenarios have been developed to ensure preparedness
in the short and medium term, covering communications management, traveller
care and market recovery once conditions stabilise.”
Flight cancellations impact connectivity
Preliminary assessments indicate direct implications
for travel to and from the Middle East. Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, Chiang Mai,
Phuket and Krabi airports have reported 59 flight cancellations by Middle
Eastern carriers and airlines operating routes to or via the region. Affected
airlines include Emirates, Qatar Airways, Etihad Airways, Gulf Air, Kuwait
Airways, Air Arabia, Fly Dubai, El Al, Arkia Israeli Airlines and Saudi Arabian
Airlines.
These developments have temporarily disrupted
international connectivity. At the same time, the Middle East market is
currently observing Ramadan, a period that traditionally sees reduced outbound
travel demand.
On-site assistance and coordinated response
In response to the operational disruptions affecting
passengers in Thailand, TAT has coordinated closely with airport authorities,
airlines and relevant agencies to ensure appropriate support measures.
At Suvarnabhumi Airport, additional personnel have
been deployed, assistance points established, drinking water provided and
temporary rest areas arranged. Airlines have secured accommodation for the
majority of affected passengers, leaving only minimal numbers remaining within
airport premises. At other airports, TAT is working with local authorities and
the Tourist Police Bureau to provide on-site support and facilitate onward
travel arrangements.
The TAT Governor has also instructed domestic
marketing divisions to collaborate with partners nationwide to assist stranded
visitors and prepare targeted stimulus measures for domestic tourism and
alternative high-potential markets. Once the situation improves, TAT plans to
implement structured recovery initiatives to restore confidence and reinforce
Thailand’s position as a trusted destination.
TAT’s Tourism Crisis Monitoring Centre will continue
to monitor developments closely and provide timely, accurate updates to tourism
operators and industry stakeholders to ensure coordinated and effective
management throughout this evolving situation.
For official travel guidance and assistance,
travellers can contact the TAT Call Centre on 1672 or the Tourist Police
Hotline on 1155, both available 24 hours a day.
Image
Credit: © TAT
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