Lantern risks curb flights

Chiang Mai airport has reported 108 cancelled flights and 80 schedule changes ahead of the Yi Peng and Loy Krathong festivals, as restrictions on lantern releases are expected to disrupt air traffic Nov 21-28.

The restrictions aim to cut risks from more than 200,000 sky and smoke lanterns expected within the airport's flight safety zone on Nov 24–25, during and after Loy Krathong on Nov 24.

Airlines have been asked to avoid flying from 10am to noon on Nov 24 and between 7pm and 1am the following day. This will reduce the airport's daily operating hours from about 20 to 12, airport director Gp Capt Sakan Udol said.

The airport has stepped up inspections, alerted pilots and worked with local authorities to keep flight paths clear of lanterns.