In the northern Thai city of Chiang Mai, a dramatic incident unfolded on the night of February 7, involving the arrest of a Canadian man for an alleged disruption that led to the triggering of the evacuation slide on a commercial plane just before takeoff.
According to a statement from Chiang Mai International Airport, the episode occurred during the pre-takeoff preparations of Thai Airways flight TG121, scheduled to depart for Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi International Airport. The air traffic control tower was notified at 10:05 p.m. that a passenger, identified as Wong Sai Heung, opened one of the plane’s doors, causing the emergency evacuation slide to deploy unexpectedly.
This action resulted in the Airbus A320 being rendered immobile on the runway, causing a temporary halt in air traffic operations and affecting other flights’ departure and landing schedules. Wing Commander Ronnakorn Chalermsanyakorn, the director of Chiang Mai International Airport, stated, “After receiving the alert, we reached out to Thai Airways mechanics to get into the site to cut the evacuation slide off, then we towed the aircraft back to landing pit number 15.”
The disruptive incident impacted a total of 13 flights, with eight forced to circle in the air before receiving clearance to land. In total, 2,295 passengers experienced delays due to the unfolding events.
Thai Airways promptly addressed the situation, indicating that mechanics adhered to safety regulations to repair and inspect the door. The delayed flight eventually resumed its journey to Bangkok after midnight, taking off at 12:34 a.m. on the 8th of February. The airline assured that all passengers, pilots, and cabin crew remained unharmed.
The arrest of Wong Sai Heung, a 40-year-old Canadian national, was carried out by Chiang Mai Police Colonel Manuschai In-thuean, who stated that the suspect could face severe penalties if found guilty. These penalties include the death penalty, imprisonment for up to 20 years, and a monetary fine ranging from 600,000 to 800,000 baht ($16,700 to $22,300). It is important to note that Thailand has not executed a prisoner since 2018.
The motive behind Wong Sai Heung’s actions remains unclear, as authorities reported that the suspect appeared stressed and was difficult to communicate with at the time of arrest. To assess his mental state, the Canadian national has been sent to the Suan Prung Psychiatric Hospital for evaluation. The investigation into the incident continues, and authorities are expected to shed light on the motive and circumstances surrounding this disruptive event.
