PUBLISHED: August 26, 2024 at 05:05
Rescue workers search the wreckage a day after a small plane crashed, while five tourists from China and four Thai nationals, including the two pilots, are all presumed dead, in Bang Pakong, Chachoengsao province, Thailand, August 23, 2024. (Reuters photo)
The Ministry of Transport has commissioned the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) to investigate the cause of a small plane crash in Chachoengsao.
Prime Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit ordered the CAAT to investigate the cause of the crash of flight TFT209 on August 22, which killed nine people, including the pilot and co-pilot, because the plane was not equipped with a flight recorder that could have provided evidence.
Flight TFT209, operated by Thai Flying Service Company, crashed in Bang Pakong district of Chachoengsao on Thursday, about 10 minutes after taking off from Suvarnabhumi Airport for Koh Mai Si in Trat province.
He also ordered the CAAT to introduce stricter safety standards for small airlines, especially those with older aircraft, that offer charter services similar to those of the Thai Flying Service Company.
Suttipong Kongpool, director of CAAT, said CAAT has taken note of the ministry’s concerns and policy directions.
At the same time, it commissioned experts to examine the Thai Flying Service Company aircraft to determine the cause of the incident and stressed the importance of ensuring the highest level of safety in accordance with international standards for transport aircraft of all sizes.
Although CAAT already conducts annual airline and ramp inspections, he said additional measures are being taken to highlight the importance of safety management systems for all operators.
Meanwhile, 50-year-old Piti Rodthong, who lives near the crash site, said he saw the plane go into a nosedive.
“I thought it would pop up and fly into the sky. But it didn’t turn out as expected. The plane landed in the mangroves and exploded. I went to the crash site and saw only the tail sticking out of the mud. I quickly retreated because the smell of oil was everywhere. I was afraid it would explode again and I would burn,” he said.
Maprang Tadsana, 62, said she was shocked by the loud sound of the crashing plane.
She said locals were also alarmed by the terrible stench and called on state authorities to remove any remains from the scene.
“As far as I know, the human remains are buried deep in the mud pit and it will be difficult to dig up all the pieces. If we could cover the site with soil, that would be better than just letting the stench out as it is at the moment,” she said.
