Enhanced airport security measures implemented
Ubon Ratchathani Airport, located in Northeast Thailand, has recently implemented stricter security measures in response to ongoing tensions along the Thai-Cambodian border. These measures include a ban on drones flying in the airport's vicinity and increased security patrols [1][2].
To further bolster security, the airport is upgrading its infrastructure. This includes the acquisition of a dual-view X-ray system and the linking of its video conferencing system to the Department of Airports' central security monitoring system. This setup allows for immediate military assistance in emergencies, such as evacuations [1].
Looking ahead, the plans for Ubon Ratchathani Airport involve its development as a new aviation hub in the Northeast. The airport's aprons can currently handle up to 230 aircraft carrying between 180 and 350 passengers per day [1]. With the proposed upgrades, the airport aims to increase its capacity, with a 3-kilometer runway and the ability to process around 3 million passengers annually [1].
These future plans were discussed during a recent visit by Deputy Transport Minister Manaporn Charoensri, who inspected the airport's progress on its plan to upgrade to an international airport [2].
It's important to note that the drone restrictions at the airport are part of a nationwide strict ban, especially enforced in martial law border provinces like Ubon Ratchathani [3]. However, limited exceptions for agricultural drones apply under strict conditions, but drone flights remain forbidden within 9 km of airports and in designated security zones to prevent potential security threats [3][4].
Ubon Ratchathani province shares borders with Cambodia in Nam Yuen and Nam Khun districts. The airport operates an average of nine domestic flights from Don Mueang Airport and two from Suvarnabhumi Airport [1].
Danai Ruengsorn, director-general of the Department of Airports (DoA), stated that Ubon Ratchathani Airport is equipped with a video conferencing system linked to the DoA's central security monitoring system [1]. The airport is also procuring a dual-view X-ray system as part of its security upgrades.
In summary, the security at Ubon Ratchathani Airport has been enhanced with the ban on drones in its vicinity, increased security patrols, upgraded screening tools, and centralized security monitoring linked with military support. Future plans include upgrading the airport into an international airport and a regional aviation hub. These measures are in response to border tensions with Cambodia and are backed by strict drone regulations, including fines and the destruction of unauthorized drones [1][3][5].
The airport's ongoing security enhancements extend to its financial aspect, as funds are being directed towards the acquisition of a dual-view X-ray system and the upgrading of its video conferencing system for centralized security monitoring.
Moreover, in light of the increasing passenger traffic and regional significance, the airport's development plans encompass the creation of a 3-kilometer runway and the aim to process over 3 million passengers annually, which necessitates closer coordination with the transportation sector.
