Flights operated by five airlines were delayed at Suvarnabhumi Airport after the main landing gear of a China Airlines aircraft sank into the surface of the runway, Thailand’s Deputy Transport Minister Siripong Angkasakulkiat said on 29 October 2026.
The aircraft had been operating the Suvarnabhumi–Kaohsiung service when the incident occurred. China Airlines, Thai Airways and Vietjet were among the affected carriers, although the full list of five airlines was not disclosed.
Temporary repairs completed
A progress report confirmed that the aircraft had been removed from the affected area and that temporary repairs had been completed. Aeronautical Radio of Thailand Ltd (AEROTHAI) worked with Airports of Thailand Public Company Limited (AOT) to manage aircraft movements and make use of an alternative runway where appropriate.
Officials reported no further delays attributed to the incident after the aircraft was moved. The immediate disruption was therefore resolved, but the longer-term condition of the runway remains under examination.
“Temporary repairs to the area have been completed, but we still need to assess its condition and consider whether major repairs are necessary and how long they would take.”
Siripong said the relevant agencies had been asked to review the technical details and decide how to proceed with any additional repairs or improvements. The assessment will also consider how work can be carried out without causing excessive disruption to passengers.
Cause remains under investigation
The subsidence is being investigated by the agencies responsible for the airport’s infrastructure. Officials are examining several possible contributing factors and will carry out a broader engineering assessment of the affected location, including the condition of related systems and infrastructure.
The incident followed flooding, and officials are also assessing whether flood-related factors played a role. No conclusion on the cause has been announced. The review is intended to establish what further repairs may be needed and the time required to complete them.
| Service | Operator | Aircraft issue | Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Suvarnabhumi–Kaohsiung | China Airlines | Main landing gear entered the runway surface | Flights by five airlines delayed |
- Temporary repairs have been completed.
- The affected aircraft has been moved from the runway area.
- Further engineering checks will determine whether major repairs are required.
