Travellers flying from Thailand will soon be subject to new airport security rules that allow officers to open checked baggage without the passenger being present if suspicious items are detected during screening.
The new regulations, introduced by the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT), will take effect on October 16 as part of efforts to strengthen aviation security in line with international standards.
Bags can be opened if X-ray detects suspicious items
Under the new rules, airport security officers may inspect checked luggage if X-ray scans reveal:
- Prohibited items
- Suspicious objects
- Anything considered a potential threat to aviation security
Passengers will not be required to attend or witness the inspection.
CAAT said the entire search process will be recorded to ensure transparency.
After the inspection is completed, officers will place a Notice of Baggage Inspection inside the luggage, informing passengers that their bag was opened for security screening.
Prohibited items may be confiscated
If officers discover dangerous or prohibited items during the inspection, they may confiscate them.
CAAT said such items will not be returned to passengers.
Travellers are advised to check what is allowed before packing and avoid placing prohibited items in checked baggage to minimise delays during airport screening.
Follows stricter power bank regulations
The new baggage inspection policy comes shortly after Thailand introduced tighter rules governing power banks and spare lithium batteries on flights.
Under those regulations:
- Power banks are only allowed in carry-on baggage.
- They are not permitted in checked luggage.
- Passengers are prohibited from using onboard power outlets to charge power banks.
- Power banks also cannot be used to charge mobile phones or other electronic devices during flights.
The measures were introduced to reduce aviation safety risks associated with lithium batteries.