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Bangkok Airways applies now weighing passengers before boarding Image Courtesy: Bangkok Airways Bangkok Airways has introduced weight measurement for all passengers before boarding, effective until October 31st, assuring that the information obtained will be kept confidential. The airline said in a statement that the weighing of passengers is in line with the standard measures of the International Civil Aviation Organisation and the purpose is to aid in the calculation of the take-off weight, to ensure flight safety. The airline said the weighing will be done at the departure gate before boarding and it is seeking cooperation from all passengers. Full story: Thai PBS 2023-09-18 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Your chance to weigh in on airport and flight practices in Thailand may be coming, quite literally. Bangkok Airways is looking to join a number of international airlines that will be weighing passengers before boarding. On September 16, it became clear that airlines were getting a bit nosy about passengers’ pounds. Foreign giants like Korean Air and Air New Zealand initiated an eyebrow-raising rule, demanding that passengers step on the scales before they step onto the plane. Why? To crack the code of standard passenger weight and averages to safely calculate flight load. In a recent development within the aviation industry, the unconventional practice has taken off and the notion of assessing passengers’ weight before boarding has gained traction. Their aim? To keep those aircraft trimmed and proper, reducing fuel consumption in the process. by Neill Fronde TOP: Bangkok Airways plans to start weighing passengers before flights. (via iStock) Full story: The Thaiger 2023-09-18 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

OPPOSITION MPs HAVE been urged to investigate the unprecedented event in which Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin will be flying a Thai Airway International airliner for as much as 30 million baht in chartered flight to the United States on Tuesday. MPs Urged To Probe Srettha’s 30-Million-Baht Chartered Flight To US Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1306841-mps-urged-to-probe-srettha’s-30-million-baht-chartered-flight-to-us/

OPPOSITION MPs HAVE been urged to investigate the unprecedented event in which Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin will be flying a Thai Airway International airliner for as much as 30 million baht in chartered flight to the United States on Tuesday. Somchai Srisutthiyakorn of the Thai Liberal Party today (Sep.17) called on the opposition lawmakers in general and the House Committee on Anti-corruption and Misconduct in particular to look into the event in which Srettha has managed to fly the THAI airliner on such a costly chartered flight to New York to attend the 78th United Nations General Assembly from Tuesday till Friday. Accompanying the prime minister on an official trip to the US are an estimated 50 people including cabinet members, high-level government officials and private businesspersons, among others. By Thai Newsroom Reporters Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. Photo: Thai Rath Full story: THAI NEWSROOM 2023-09-18 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand launches online platform for foreign tenant registration by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of Siamrath Phuket Immigration has called for property owners and managers across Thailand to register for the new online notification platform for foreign tenants. This system, which became operational yesterday, replaces the previous one. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1306792-thailand-launches-online-platform-for-foreign-tenant-registration/

Thailand’s airlines resist price war despite rising operational costs by Alex Morgan Picture courtesy of Thairath Despite escalating operational costs, Thailand’s airlines are unlikely to trigger a new price war, while the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) intends to retain the existing ceiling for ticket prices. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1306790-thailand’s-airlines-resist-price-war-despite-rising-operational-costs/

Despite escalating operational costs, Thailand’s airlines are unlikely to trigger a new price war, while the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) intends to retain the existing ceiling for ticket prices. This information was shared by Suttipong Kongpool, the CAAT director, during a seminar co-hosted by the Airlines Association of Thailand (AAT) and CAAT this week. Suttipong indicated that with jet fuel prices, a significant component accounting for 30-40% of operational costs, not expected to rise beyond US$120 per barrel in the near term, the regulated ceiling price would remain unchanged for at least three years. As per CAAT rules, the upper limit for low-cost airfares is set at 9.4 baht (US$ 0.27) per kilometre, while full-service airfares are capped at 13.0 baht (US$ 0.37) per km. Suttipong noted that despite the pandemic-induced spike in fuel prices to US$170-180, the price ceiling remained unaltered. CAAT does not intend to establish a minimum price, as lower airfares would be advantageous to passengers, specifically those who secure their tickets ahead of time. Suttipong suggested that the possibility of airlines engaging in a price war, as experienced in 2019, is low, considering the inappropriate revenue levels that resulted from the large passenger volume. He stressed that a price war would be detrimental to airlines and the aviation ecosystem, especially in the wake of the pandemic’s impact, reported Bangkok Post. Releasing booking data at the seminar for a flight scheduled from Bangkok’s Don Mueang airport to Phuket on May 19, 2023, CAAT revealed that 32.8% of passengers paid less than 1,000 baht (US$ 28), while 37.9% paid between 1,001 and 1,500 baht (US$ 28 and 43). by Alex Morgan Picture courtesy of Thairath Full story: The Thaiger 2023-09-16 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Will govt policy to cut train fares by 50% spark Bangkok renaissance? Ruling party Pheu Thai has promised to honor its election policy by capping Bangkok city train fares at 20 baht. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1306789-will-govt-policy-to-cut-train-fares-by-50-spark-bangkok-renaissance/

Thailand’s new parliament building nears completion, set for Constitution Day unveil by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of Wikipedia The near completion of Sappaya-Sapasathan, Thailand’s new parliament building, is set to be celebrated by House members and staff on Constitution Day, December 10, as stated by Deputy House Speaker, Padipat Santiphada. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1306786-thailand’s-new-parliament-building-nears-completion-set-for-constitution-day-unveil/

Thai education minister’s appointment in question over Red Bull heir scandal by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of Education Minister Newsline Facebook The recent appointment of Education Minister, Pol Gen Permpoon Chidchob, has been challenged by the Move Forward Party (MFP), following allegations of his involvement in aiding Vorayuth “Boss” Yoovidhya, the heir to the Red Bull fortune, to evade prosecution. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1306780-thai-education-minister’s-appointment-in-question-over-red-bull-heir-scandal/

The recent appointment of Education Minister, Pol Gen Permpoon Chidchob, has been challenged by the Move Forward Party (MFP), following allegations of his involvement in aiding Vorayuth “Boss” Yoovidhya, the heir to the Red Bull fortune, to evade prosecution. MFP MP Teerajchai Phunthumas voiced these concerns during a press briefing on Friday. He drew attention to the National Anti-Corruption Commission’s (NACC) decision to formally charge multiple individuals for their alleged role in mishandling the notorious hit-and-run case involving Vorayuth in 2012. Pol Gen Permpoon, who at the time served as the assistant to the national police chief, Pol Gen Somyot Poompunmuang, is amongst those accused. On the early morning of September 3, 2012, Vorayuth, then in his early 20s, collided his Ferrari with a motorcycle ridden by Pol Snr Sgt Maj Wichian Klanprasert in the Thong Lor neighbourhood. Rather than assisting the victim, Vorayuth sped away, dragging the victim’s body 200 metres from the incident site. He failed to report the incident and fled the country in 2017, after continuously ignoring summons to appear in court. Some charges have already reached their statute of limitations. by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of Education Minister Newsline Facebook Full story: The Thaiger 2023-09-16 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

As Chinese Tourists Return to Thailand, So Do Scams Targeting Them by Yiamyut Sutthichaya Thailand's Public Health Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, right, gives garlands to Chinese tourists on their arrival at Suvarnabhumi International Airport in Samut Prakarn province, Thailand, Jan. 9, 2023. WASHINGTON — As Chinese tourists return to Thailand after the pandemic curtailed travel, so are the scams that Thai authorities worry will taint the country's reputation even if most of the victims and perpetrators appear to be Chinese. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1306778-as-chinese-tourists-return-to-thailand-so-do-scams-targeting-them/

WASHINGTON — As Chinese tourists return to Thailand after the pandemic curtailed travel, so are the scams that Thai authorities worry will taint the country's reputation even if most of the victims and perpetrators appear to be Chinese. Deputy Police Chief Pol Lt Gen Surachate Hakparn said at a news conference last month that 18 Chinese were charged with fraud for allegedly selling overpriced, supposedly holy, amulets to Chinese tourists visiting Khao Chi Chan temple in Chonburi province. The temple, a Buddhist landmark, is about 160 kilometers southeast of Bangkok in an area famed for its natural beauty and delectable seafood. The alleged fraud involves sales of amulets, objects of either faith or fashion, coveted by Chinese tourists. Real ones sell for thousands of dollars depending on their provenance and material. The ones sold to Chinese tourists, while expensive, are fake. The fraudulent sales occurred during the first half of 2023, and 20 people have been charged, according to police. Sixteen are male, 18 are Chinese and two are Thai. by Yiamyut Sutthichaya TOP: Thailand's Public Health Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, right, gives garlands to Chinese tourists on their arrival at Suvarnabhumi International Airport in Samut Prakarn province, Thailand, Jan. 9, 2023. Full story: VOA NEWS 2023-09-16 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Charter changes referendum has MFP concerned about government’s procrastination by Atima Homtientong Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post The potential referendum concerning changes to the charter sparked concerns as the Move Forward Party (MFP) suggests the government is procrastinating. Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai tasked with forming a panel to study the referendum plans, stated that discussions about the referendum’s necessity are still ongoing. This announcement came after the Cabinet’s first meeting this week. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1306776-charter-changes-referendum-has-mfp-concerned-about-government’s-procrastination/

The potential referendum concerning changes to the charter sparked concerns as the Move Forward Party (MFP) suggests the government is procrastinating. Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai tasked with forming a panel to study the referendum plans, stated that discussions about the referendum’s necessity are still ongoing. This announcement came after the Cabinet’s first meeting this week. The focus of the Cabinet’s first meeting was on pressing policies, including the need to democratise the existing charter, seen by many as a legacy of the 2014 coup. Commerce Minister Phumtham, who is also the Deputy Prime Minister, has been approached by numerous academics and interest groups willing to assist with the charter’s overhaul. However, their stances on what needs to be amended vastly differ, he said. Phumtham further explained that the government aims to avoid legal and technical hindrances that previously held back the charter amendment efforts. This comment was about the charter amendment attempts by various parties, halted after the Constitutional Court ruled a referendum was needed to decide on the constitution’s rewrite. In response to the government’s plan to establish a referendum study panel, MFP list MP Parit Wacharasindhu suggested it is merely a time-buying tactic. by Atima Homtientong Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Full story: The Thaiger 2023-09-16 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Unauthorized Radio Communication Equipment Dealer Arrested in Pattaya Picture: Siam Rath On September 15, 2023, news broke regarding the apprehension of an illicit radio communication equipment dealer in the Pattaya area of Chonburi Province, Thailand, with goods valued at over 500,000 Baht. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1306775-unauthorized-radio-communication-equipment-dealer-arrested-in-pattaya/

Police and Officials Raid Illegal Cockfighting Arena, Arrest Dozens in Sisaket province In a dramatic operation, authorities in Thailand's Sisaket province, led by Governor Surachai Tumwong, joined forces with police to raid and dismantle a large-scale illegal cockfighting arena. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1306773-police-and-officials-raid-illegal-cockfighting-arena-arrest-dozens-in sisaket-province/

New Landmark in Maha Sarakham Takes Social Media by Storm Maha Sarakham has a new icon, and it's making waves on social media. A Facebook user posted a photo in a Maha Sarakham group, revealing the province's new landmark, "Phaya Naka Spews Water," before it became the center of attention for netizens. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1306770-new-landmark-in-maha-sarakham-takes-social-media-by-storm/

Ruthless Debt Collector "Khun Pay" Apprehended in Nakhon Nayok Friday, September 15, 2023, the police, in collaboration with PCT5 and the 113th Division, apprehended "Khun Pay," the leader of a ruthless debt collection gang accused of running an unauthorized sub-loan business with excessive interest rates. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1306769-ruthless-debt-collector-khun-pay-apprehended-in-nakhon-nayok/

Shocking treatment: Thai-American couple demands justice after electric shock in Chon Buri hotel jacuzzi by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ ข่าวนนท์ คนแฝด A pregnant Thai woman and her American husband demanded compensation after the couple and their son were electrocuted while bathing in a luxury hotel jacuzzi in the Sattahip district of Chon Buri province. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1306766-shocking-treatment-thai-american-couple-demands-justice-after-electric-shock-in-chon-buri-hotel-jacuzzi/

Fire Engulfs High-Rise Building in Poipet, Cambodia, Opposite Thailand's Sa Kaeo Province SA KAEO – A fire broke out in a high-rise building in the heart of Poipet, Cambodia, opposite Thailand's Aranyaprathet district in Sa Kaeo Province. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1306765-fire-engulfs-high-rise-building-in-poipet-cambodia-opposite-thailands-sa-kaeo-province/

Environmental Crisis: "Green Sea" in Chonburi Raises Concerns, Lasting Until End of October Daily News reports that the marine environment in Chonburi is in serious trouble, with Dr. Thon, an acclaimed specialist in marine and environmental matters, sounding the alarm about the continuous occurrence of the "Green Sea" phenomenon. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1306764-environmental-crisis-green-sea-in-chonburi-raises-concerns-lasting-until-end-of-october/

EconThai urges government: Debt-lift measures needed for all, not just farmers by Alex Morgan Photo by Unsplash. EconThai, the Employers’ Confederation of Thai Trade and Industry, called on the government to hasten steps to alleviate the heavy domestic debt burden, aiming to aid not only farmers but also middle-income earners who are bearing substantial financial loads. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1306763-econthai-urges-government-debt-lift-measures-needed-for-all-not-just-farmers/

EconThai, the Employers’ Confederation of Thai Trade and Industry, called on the government to hasten steps to alleviate the heavy domestic debt burden, aiming to aid not only farmers but also middle-income earners who are bearing substantial financial loads. EconThai Vice-Chairman, Tanit Sorat, highlighted the necessity for debt suspension measures to be inclusive, covering a wide range of individuals in need, from farmers and owners of small and medium-sized businesses to middle-income earners. He further emphasised that the suspension should encompass both principal and interest. This call to action came in the wake of a recent decision by the Cabinet to endorse a new three-year debt moratorium for farmers and small businesses. Further details on this debt relief plan are expected once a two-week study by the Finance Ministry reports. by Alex Morgan Photo by Unsplash. Full story: The Thaiger 2023-09-16 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Phuket’s forest-working group takes root: Mapping a path for protected land issues Photo of Atima Homtientong Picture courtesy of The Phuket News. Phuket’s inaugural meeting of a newly established working group, tasked with resolving issues concerning residents residing in or near the Bang Khanun Protected National Forest, resolved to develop a database to record all land parcels owned or occupied within the forest area. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1306762-phuket’s-forest-working-group-takes-root-mapping-a-path-for-protected-land-issues/