US Carrier Abraham Lincoln to Dock at Laem Chabang Port, Chonburi on Alert

PATTAYA, Thailand – Laem Chabang Port is preparing to welcome the US Navy’s USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier from Sept. 2–6, with officials saying its return visit reflects confidence in the port’s infrastructure, facilities and security measures. Veerachart Phuttharaksa, deputy director of Laem Chabang Port, said preparations extend beyond the port itself, with agencies across Chonburi coordinating to ensure security and facilitate the movement of US military personnel during their stay. Chonburi Governor has coordinated relevant agencies and held meetings to prepare security arrangements and ensure smooth operations for personnel entering the province, while Laem Chabang Port has also made adjustments to its internal traffic management. Certain entrances and routes will be separated for vehicles and other port users. Gate 3 will temporarily have its use restricted for about seven days to facilitate traffic management while the USS Abraham Lincoln is docked. Normal arrangements will resume after the carrier departs. Officials said the selection of Laem Chabang reflects several factors, including the availability of facilities, security measures and the port’s ability to accommodate a large vessel and a substantial number of personnel. US Navy aircraft carriers have previously called at Laem Chabang, and the USS Abraham Lincoln itself has visited the port before. Officials said the repeat visit demonstrates confidence in the port’s facilities and security arrangements. Laem Chabang is Thailand’s largest port in terms of physical infrastructure and facilities, making it capable of accommodating large vessels and large numbers of personnel, Veerachart said. The visit is also being viewed as an opportunity for Chon Buri to strengthen ties with the visiting US personnel while generating benefits for surrounding communities through tourism, services and related economic activities. Veerachart called on people in Chonburi to welcome the visiting personnel as “good hosts,” saying military personnel visiting the province for leisure should be treated much like other tourists. He encouraged residents and businesses to offer friendly service and assistance and create a positive impression that would encourage the visitors to return to Chonburi. The preparations therefore extend beyond port operations, involving security, traffic management, tourism and visitor services across the province, while highlighting Laem Chabang’s role as a major maritime gateway and Thailand’s principal commercial port.