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Suvarnabhumi Bangkok Airport to enforce in-flight liquid procedures

Analysis

The Thai Transport Ministry's Aviation Department confirmed

(23-Mar-07) it will enforce its rule requiring air passengers to display liquids,

gels and sprays in transparent containers before boarding flights on 01-Jun-07.

Transport Ministry Aviation Department Director-General, Chaisak Angkasuwan. said he had met representatives of Airports of Thailand (AOT), airlines and King Power, contracted for duty free and other business at Suvarnabhumi airport, regarding the measure, which will be enforced both on domestic and international routes beginning 01-Jun-07.

Enforcement will follow International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) procedures already used by many airlines worldwide after Britain last year disclosed that terrorists planned to destroy planes and passengers with liquid bombs carried aboard aircraft. Chaisak said ICAO personnel will inspect security measures at the new Bangkok airport and how Thai authorities monitor the carrying of liquid substances, gels and sprays by passengers.

Although King Power has prepared clear plastic bags for passengers buying products from its duty free shop at the airport, it expects its sales to drop 20-30% in the first three to six months after the rule is enforced. Passengers may find it troublesome to carry the products aboard the plane in the beginning but sales may pick up later after they are accustomed to the measure, the company said.

Thai Airways International, the national flag carrier, said the company will comply with the new rule.

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