Defence Ministry confirms distressed flight passenger is soldier

Thailand's Defence Ministry has confirmed that a man filmed shouting and demanding that a flight from Malaysia to Don Mueang land was a serving soldier who had a pre-existing psychiatric condition.

The passenger's condition reportedly worsened during the flight, prompting cabin crew to intervene and restrain him until he calmed down. His unit has since sent him to Phramongkutklao Hospital for urgent treatment and close monitoring.

Ministry confirms passenger's military role

The case emerged after footage circulated on social media showing the male passenger shouting while aboard the Malaysia-Don Mueang service and attempting to force the aircraft land.

Rear Admiral Surasant Kongsiri, spokesman for the Ministry of Defence, said the man is genuinely a soldier attached to the ministry's Defence Policy and Planning Office.

Picture courtesy of Komchadluek

He said the man had already been receiving treatment for a psychiatric illness linked to personal circumstances before the flight. However, his symptoms became severely acute while he was in the air, as seen in the video.

The ministry did not identify the soldier, airline or flight date, and gave no further details about the impact on the aircraft's journey or other passengers.

Hospital treatment under way

According to the Defence Ministry, the soldier's unit has transferred him to Phramongkutklao Hospital, the military hospital in Bangkok, for treatment and close observation.

The incident highlights the importance for passengers facing a serious health or mental health episode while travelling of seeking assistance from cabin crew, rather than attempting to handle an emergency alone.

No injuries or criminal action were mentioned in the ministry's statement.

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11 August 2026