Thai Airways aims to clear baggage backlog amid CEO dismissal

Backlog size and timeline

The airline said the baggage backlog began on Sept 26 when flooding prevented some ground‑handling staff from reaching work. On Sept 29 chief executive Chai Eamsiri reported about 5,000 bags were still at Suvarnabhumi Airport and set a target to clear them within 72 hours. Thai Airways later announced it expects to return the remaining 1,092 delayed bags to passengers by Oct 4.

Other reports placed the initial backlog between 5,000 and 10,000 bags.

Management changes

Chai Eamsiri was suspended from duty on Oct 2 and dismissed the same day after the baggage crisis and widespread flight cancellations. Director Sumrid Sumneing was appointed acting CEO while a formal inquiry reviews the airline’s crisis management.

Operational response

The airline relied on the Royal Thai Air Force and military personnel to clear the baggage backlogs. It also announced a short‑term cut of departures from Bangkok by 30 % to 40 %, transferring passenger loads to partner airlines and using courier services to deliver remaining luggage directly to travellers’ homes.