Starting 16 October, Thailand authorities have been given the power to open travellers' checked baggage for inspections without passengers' presence, if the bags are suspected to contain prohibited items.
The Thailand's Civil Aviation Authority (CAAT) has specified that in such cases, the procedure will be done in specific areas and recorded. Thereafter a notification will also be left for the luggage owners of the checks and of any confiscated items after.
Tips for travellers:
Use approved TSA lock systems to allow security to open luggage without damage
Before boarding, check belongings to ensure there are no prohibited items, including explosives, firearms, flammable sprays, chemical substances and power banks
Avoid placing valuables, fragile items or important property in checked baggage
If concerned, complaints can be filed at the CAAT complaint portal
CAAT has said that the protocol follows standard practices in other Asia Pacific countries, and is a needful step in preventing travel delays.
Related: More APAC airlines tightening power bank use onboard