Thai Airways Board Disciplines CEO After Flood Failures
Thai Airways took disciplinary action against CEO Chai Eamsiri following severe operational failures during catastrophic flooding in Bangkok.
The board of Thai Airways International has taken disciplinary action against Chief Executive Chai Eamsiri following the airline's failed response to severe flooding in Bangkok. Local media reports are conflicted regarding the exact nature of the penalty, with some outlets stating Eamsiri was dismissed while others report he was suspended from duty.
The disciplinary measures follow a period of significant operational collapse after Bangkok received 320 mm of rain over three days, leading the city to be declared a disaster-affected zone. The airline cancelled dozens of flights and suspended cargo operations as employees were unable to reach their workplaces.
Operational failures peaked at Suvarnabhumi Airport, where massive baggage delays occurred. The situation deteriorated to the point that the Royal Thai Air Force was required to intervene to help resolve the baggage backlog and restore order to the airport's operations.
