A lieutenant in the Royal Thai Army was restrained by cabin crew during a flight from Malaysia to Bangkok after experiencing a mental health relapse. According to the Thai Defence Ministry, the officer, who serves in the Office of Policy and Planning, attempted to open an aircraft door mid-flight while shouting demands for the plane to land. He was subsequently taken to Phramongkutklao Hospital in Bangkok for medical evaluation upon arrival.
Incident Details and Passenger Response
The disturbance occurred mid-journey on a flight bound for Don Mueang International Airport, according to reports. Passengers witnessed a man in a white shirt pacing the aisle and shouting “landing” in English. A video of the event, shared on social media, shows the officer speaking incoherently in Thai. According to the Thai Enquirer, his statements included the remark, “No one can choose what they are born to be. This is the best in our lives. We all need to talk.”
Two male cabin attendants intervened to secure the passenger after he reportedly attempted to access an aircraft exit door. The crew successfully restrained him in a seat for the remainder of the flight. Throughout the process, the man continued to shout, at times using profanity, as documented in footage circulated on platforms like X.
Defence Ministry Confirmation and Medical Status
On Monday, RAdm Surasant Kongsiri, a spokesman for the Thai Defence Ministry, confirmed the identity of the passenger and the nature of the emergency. RAdm Surasant stated that the lieutenant had been receiving ongoing psychiatric treatment for a mental health condition. The ministry noted that the officer’s symptoms flared up due to a personal condition during the flight, leading to the mid-air incident.
Comparison of Reporting
While all outlets confirm the officer’s role in the Office of Policy and Planning and his subsequent transfer to Phramongkutklao Hospital, coverage details vary slightly regarding the documentation of the event. The Thai Enquirer provided specific translations of the officer’s incoherent remarks, whereas other reports focused primarily on the physical actions taken by the crew. The New Straits Times noted that it had reached out to the airline for comment, though no airline or flight number has been officially disclosed by authorities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened to the officer after the flight landed?
He was immediately transported to Phramongkutklao Hospital in Bangkok for further treatment and observation, according to the Thai Defence Ministry.
Was the officer acting alone?
Yes. Reports indicate he was a single passenger experiencing a medical relapse. He was restrained by two male cabin attendants.
Which airline was involved?
The airline and specific flight number have not been disclosed by the Defence Ministry or the sources reporting on the incident.
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