PATTAYA, Thailand – Pattaya is preparing for a possible influx of United States Navy personnel when the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln and two accompanying vessels are scheduled to dock at Laem Chabang from September 2 to 6, with approximately 5,000 Navy and Marine Corps personnel believed to be aboard the carrier.

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Mayor Poramet Ngampichet said the city was ready to receive those permitted to come ashore for rest following a lengthy Middle East deployment, with Thai Navy officials confirming the visit is for crew rest and recuperation as well as logistical support, stressing that it is not a joint military exercise with Thailand.

Reports indicated that personnel on USS Abraham Lincoln have not had a full port visit for more than 200 days during the latest deployment, making the stop in Thailand a significant opportunity for rest and relaxation. The mayor stated that Pattaya had periodically welcomed US service personnel when warships visited the eastern seaboard, and that local businesses were willing to receive crews coming into the city after completing their duties.

The visit is expected to bring business for restaurants, entertainment venues, transport providers, and other service-sector operators, with a noticeable rise in customers at popular Pattaya venues anticipated during the port call, particularly if a substantial number of sailors are granted shore leave. Poramet said Pattaya City would work with police, municipal enforcement officers, and relevant agencies on land and at sea to look after the safety of both tourists and visiting personnel.

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He estimated that each service member could spend approximately 1,000 to 3,000 baht while in Pattaya, and if all 5,000 personnel entered the city and spent within that range, the resulting circulation in the local economy could be between 5 and 15 million baht, though the estimate depends on the number of personnel actually allowed ashore and travelling to Pattaya. The visit marks a significant economic opportunity for the coastal city, which has long been a favoured destination for US Navy personnel on shore leave.

-Thailand News (TN)