Thailand to open suspicious checked bags without owners’ presence

Dhaka: Thailand will allow airport security authorities to open passengers’ checked luggage without their consent when bags are suspected of containing prohibited items or materials that could threaten aircraft safety.

The new measure will take effect on October 16, according to the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT). It will apply only to checked baggage destined for an aircraft’s cargo hold that has undergone X-ray screening and been flagged for further inspection.

Under the procedure, suspicious luggage will be opened at designated locations, with the process recorded on video and evidence collected to ensure proper oversight. Passengers will be notified after their bags have been inspected.

CAAT has advised travelers to use luggage fitted with TSA-approved locks, which can be opened by authorized security personnel without damaging the bags.

The regulator said similar procedures are already used in several countries, including Singapore, Japan, South Korea, the United States, and countries across Europe and the Middle East.

Authorities said the system is also intended to reduce airport delays by allowing security officers to inspect suspicious baggage without first locating and contacting its owner.

Thailand first announced the policy in February, giving airports and other stakeholders time to prepare for its implementation.

Passengers who have concerns about baggage inspections after the new rules take effect will be able to submit complaints through CAAT’s official complaint portal.