BANGKOK — Thailand’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAAT) has ordered Nok Air to suspend all international flights and halt route expansion indefinitely due to persistent safety concerns, dealing a significant blow to the low-cost carrier’s operations and reputation, the Bangkok Post reported.

Nok Air discontinues only route to Mae Hong Son

The directive, issued on August 25, follows a series of operational incidents between 2023 and 2025, including in-flight engine shutdowns, runway excursions, hard landings, and tail strikes. While Nok Air currently has no international services due to low seasonal demand, it typically flies to three Chinese and two Indian destinations during peak periods.

CAAT cited unresolved safety issues, including an unexplained engine failure on a flight to Nanning, China, last year. The airline stated it could not conduct a root cause analysis as the engine had already been replaced. Authorities also raised concerns over high personnel turnover among pilots, instructors, and flight inspectors, questioning the airline’s operational consistency.

CAAT suspends Nok Air’s international flights and expansion plans, citing safety compliance issues. The airline must resolve deficiencies before resuming. #CAAT #NokAirhttps://t.co/Q4XVtaKIRN

— Thenationthailand (@Thenationth) August 29, 2025

Nok Air CEO Wutthiphum Jurangkool defended the carrier’s record, emphasizing that no fatal accidents had occurred in its 21-year history. He attributed staff departures to career moves rather than safety failures and highlighted compliance with International Air Transport Association (IATA) audits. The airline is collaborating with Boeing and technology partners to enhance pilot monitoring and training.

The suspension comes ahead of a critical International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) audit of Thailand’s aviation safety system, scheduled from August 27 to September 8, 2025. CAAT’s move reflects Thailand’s broader effort to prioritize safety over growth and rebuild confidence in its aviation sector.

Nok Air plane which slid off runway on Saturday sustains damage to landing gear

Nok Air continues domestic operations but faces a tight deadline to address CAAT’s concerns. The airline aims to achieve compliance within a month, though restoring trust among international travelers may prove a longer challenge.

-Thailand News (TN)