Thailand to Open Checked Baggage Without Owners Present from Oct 16

Authorities in Thailand will be able to open air travellers’ checked baggage for security reasons without an owner’s consent starting on Oct 16, but the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) has affirmed that checks will follow strict guidelines. According to the CAAT, officials will open only checked bags bound for an aircraft’s hold that have been x-rayed and suspected to contain illegal objects or items that could jeopardise aircraft safety. Suspicious bags will be opened in specified areas. The opening will be videoed and evidence will be collected throughout the process so that the action can be checked. Luggage owners will be informed of the opening afterwards. The CAAT recommended that travellers use luggage with an approved TSA Lock system, which will allow security officers to open luggage without damaging it. The regulator said the practice was now standard in countries including Singapore, Japan, South Korea, the United States and many countries in Europe and the Middle East. It also helps prevent travel delays because officials do not have to call luggage owners before the opening, the CAAT said. The new measure was first announced in February to give the parties concerned time to prepare, and for passengers to review the status of their luggage if necessary. Once the inspection system takes effect, travellers with concerns can file complaints at the CAAT complaint portal.