Thailand’s Hat Noppharat Thara–Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park has dismissed viral claims that an international airport is being built on Phi Phi Island, warning the public not to believe false information. Officials confirmed on 1 May that posts circulating on social media, particularly Instagram, are untrue and based on AI-generated imagery. The park stressed that the area cannot support such construction.
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The clarification follows online posts stating, “Phi Phi will have its very own international airport starting on May 1st,” accompanied by realistic images. Park authorities said the visuals do not represent any real location and were artificially created. The claim appears to reference Phi Phi Don island, specifically the Ton Sai Bay–Loh Dalum Bay area in Village 7.
Officials explained that this area is privately owned land measuring 140 metres wide and 1,490 metres long. It is already developed with hotels, restaurants, a hospital, and other businesses. As such, it lacks the space and suitability required for an airport.
The park further noted that most of the national park consists of steep limestone mountains. These natural features make the terrain unsuitable for airport construction or aircraft operations. Authorities emphasised that no such development is planned or feasible within the park boundaries.
In response to the misinformation, the national park urged the public and tourists to rely only on official communication channels. It warned against sharing unverified content, which can cause confusion and spread false expectations about development in protected areas.
The incident highlights the growing impact of AI-generated images and misinformation online. Authorities reiterated the importance of verifying sources before sharing content, particularly when it deals with sensitive environmental or tourism issues.
Daily News reported that officials said they will continue monitoring and addressing false claims to protect public understanding and the integrity of the national park. They encouraged continued cooperation from the public in preventing the spread of fake news.
Picture courtesy of Daily News
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Adapted by ASEAN Now Dailynews 2 May 2026