The Thai broadcasting authority and officials reported that a Canadian tourist opened the door of a Thai Airways plane while it was preparing to take off from Chiang Mai Airport bound for Bangkok. Ananya Tiangtai, a Facebook user who was on board, wrote, "The entire plane was in chaos," adding that authorities escorted the passenger off the plane. She continued, "What if we were at 30,000 feet above sea level? What would have happened?"
The airport director stated that a passenger opened the emergency door, leading to the deployment of the inflatable slide, which prevented the plane from taking off. He explained that the aircraft returned to its position and passengers disembarked, and technicians conducted safety checks. He added that the incident affected more than ten other flights at the airport.
Thai Airways stated that after inspection, the plane was allowed to depart, and noted that all passengers and crew were safe. Later, a local television channel aired footage of the passenger being held at a police station, identifying him as a Canadian tourist. The tourist's lawyer stated that his client "admitted to opening the door, explaining that people were chasing him. It was evident from his behavior that he was likely delirious."
