CAAT Tightens Crew Baggage Rules Following Heroin Bust

Thailand's Civil Aviation Authority (CAAT) has mandated stricter control over cabin crew baggage after a Thai Airways International flight attendant was apprehended in Australia for heroin possession. The new directives were announced by CAAT last Saturday, shortly after Thai Airways crew member Mina was detained at Melbourne Airport on June 25. Customs officials discovered over one kilogram of heroin, valued at an estimated 11.5 million baht (US$315,000), concealed in her tote bags. Under the updated regulations, all Air Operator Certificate holders are now required to establish clear limitations on the type, size, and weight of items that crew members can carry. Furthermore, crew members are explicitly prohibited from transporting goods for third parties unless officially authorized by their airline. ACM Manat Chavanaprayoon, CAAT's Director-General, stated that this measure follows a national narcotics suppression committee meeting held on July 3. He emphasized, 'Airlines must now implement risk management systems, conduct random baggage inspections, provide crew awareness training, establish whistleblower channels, and enforce disciplinary procedures.' Airlines failing to comply with these new rules face regulatory actions, which could include the suspension or revocation of their operating licenses. These regulations will also be a key factor in future certificate inspections. Pol Lt Gen Archayon Kraithong, Commissioner of the Narcotics Suppression Bureau, confirmed that a special team has been formed, believing the case is linked to an international trafficking network. Investigators are collaborating with the Metropolitan Police Bureau, the Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB), and the Australian Federal Police to identify the masterminds and financiers behind the operation. Police are preparing to file additional charges for transnational organized crime, which carry penalties ranging from four to fifteen years imprisonment and fines between 80,000 baht (US$2,190) and 300,000 baht (US$8,220). Areepak Ngernbamroong, ONCB Deputy Secretary-General, revealed that the investigation has broadened following the arrest of 47-year-old Uthai Khanaphiwat, who allegedly delivered the heroin parcel to Mina before her flight.