Thai airlines could face ban on new flights after audit raises safety concerns

Thailand is facing bans on new international flights and increased inspections after the International Civil Aviation Organisation flagged significant concerns about the country's aviation safety.

The ICAO's designation of Thailand as a "significant safety concern" has not been announced publicly by the UN agency but governments were informed last week. Kwak Young-pil, an official from South Korea's Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, said the ICAO made the designation on March 20.

Japan has blocked new flights from Thailand following the ICAO decision and South Korea is considering similar measures, officials said. Existing flights aren't affected.

Among the airlines forced to cancel flights are budget carriers Thai AirAsia X, NokScoot and Asia Atlantic Airline, Thailand's Department of Civil Aviation said. Flag carrier Thai Airways is also affected.

Thai Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha told reporters he has instructed the country's foreign minister to discuss the ban with Japan, and has ordered an urgent overhaul of the civil aviation department.

The disruptions come ahead of Thailand's traditional new year, known as Songkran, a heavy travel season when airlines typically increase the number of flights. Thailand is one of the world's top tourist destinations and its tourism industry is crucial to the economy, employing millions of people.

Thai Airways President Jarumporn Chotikasathein said it would have to cancel "about five" charter flights that were being planned for the April holiday schedule. He said Thai Airways and other Thai carriers will also have to undergo increased inspections by regulators from other countries as a result of the ICAO designation.