The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) has announced that from 16 October 2026, airport security staff may open and inspect checked baggage without the passenger present when X-ray screening gives reasonable grounds to suspect a prohibited item. The aim is to avoid delaying flights while staff look for the bag's owner.
What exactly changes
- Not random. CAAT says bags will not be opened routinely, only when screening raises suspicion.
- Designated area, on video. Inspections take place in a designated area and are recorded, and the records are kept for review.
- A notice in your bag. A Notice of Baggage Inspection is left inside to tell you the bag was opened.
- Prohibited items are confiscated and not returned.
Which airports
Airports of Thailand (AOT) published the guideline for its six airports: Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai (Mae Fah Luang), Phuket and Hat Yai. Samui Airport has also published the CAAT notice. For other airports, check with the airport or your airline.
Locks: use a TSA lock
CAAT recommends a TSA-approved lock, which security can open with a master key and relock without damage. Other locks, straps and zips may be cut, and according to AOT passengers cannot claim compensation for them. The alternative is to leave the bag unlocked with nothing valuable inside.
Do not pack these in checked baggage
- Power banks and spare lithium batteries: cabin bag only.
- Flammable sprays and chemicals.
- Explosives and firearms.
Keep these in your cabin bag
Passport and important documents, gold, jewellery and cash, laptop and camera, and medicines with your prescription, especially if you are travelling for treatment.
Complaints
Contact your airline, file a complaint at complaint.caat.or.th, or call the AOT call centre on 1722.
How we help
With our VIP airport service we meet you at the arrival gate and stay with you until your car, help with your luggage and any notice you find in it, and on departure make sure your bag is ready before check-in. Message us on WhatsApp before you travel.
Sources
This article is general information, not legal or medical advice. Rules change — always confirm with the official source or the Thai embassy before you travel.
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