The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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By: CNN
A Canadian man was apprehended in the northern Thai city of Chiang Mai after allegedly tampering with a commercial plane by opening one of its doors, triggering the evacuation slide just before takeoff.
According to a statement released by Chiang Mai International Airport, the incident occurred on the night of February 7. Air traffic control was alerted at 10:05 p.m. that Thai Airways flight TG121, scheduled to depart for Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi International Airport, was on the runway awaiting takeoff when a passenger opened a door, causing the evacuation slide to deploy.
The Airbus A320 was temporarily immobilized, leading to delays for other flights waiting to take off and land.
Wing Commander Ronnakorn Chalermsanyakorn, director of Chiang Mai International Airport, stated that mechanics from Thai Airways were summoned to remove and repair the slide, and the aircraft was towed back to the landing area. Thirteen flights, including eight forced to circle in the air, were affected by the incident, impacting a total of 2,295 passengers.
Thai Airways confirmed that the door was repaired and inspected in compliance with safety regulations. The delayed flight eventually departed for Bangkok after midnight, with all passengers, crew, and pilots unharmed.
Chiang Mai Police Colonel Manuschai In-thuean, overseeing the case, reported the arrest of Wong Sai Heung, a 40-year-old Canadian national, at the scene. He could face severe penalties if found guilty, including the death penalty, up to 20 years’ imprisonment, and/or a hefty fine.
Authorities indicated that they were uncertain about the suspect’s motives but observed signs of stress and difficulty in communication. The suspect was subsequently taken to Suan Prung Psychiatric Hospital for evaluation.
The police ensured the suspect’s rights during interrogations, providing legal representation and translation as required by law. Investigations into the incident are ongoing.
Efforts to reach the Canadian Embassy in Bangkok for comment by CNN were made but remained unanswered at the time of reporting.
