Pollution levels remain hazardous despite weeklong free public transport initiative
BANGKOK — On Sunday morning, a flight from Harbin, China, operated by low-cost carrier AirAsia X, was scheduled to land at Don Mueang Airport, one of Bangkok’s main airports. However, due to hazardous air quality caused by thick haze and a visibility drop to just 150 meters, the flight was diverted to Suvarnabhumi Airport, the city’s larger international hub.
According to Thailand’s Civil Aviation Authority, visibility at Don Mueang must be at least five kilometers for safe landings. The haze, which has plagued the capital, left passengers stranded, disrupting their plans to meet tour groups or connect to other flights.
Despite ongoing efforts to address air pollution, including a week of free public transportation to reduce vehicle emissions, pollution levels have remained at unhealthy levels, affecting air travel, tourism, and even public health. Experts have raised concerns about the significant impact on children’s health as the smog persists.
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