Monday, 28 July 2025

Flying to Thailand in 2025? New Rules for Liquids in Carry-On Bags

Published: Monday, April 28, 2025
Flying to Thailand in 2025? New Rules for Liquids in Carry-On Bags

As of 2025, travelers heading to Thailand will encounter new and stricter regulations regarding the transportation of liquids, gels, and aerosols (LGAs) at all airports. These changes, implemented by the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT), are part of a broader effort to enhance aviation security and align with international safety standards.

With an increasing focus on protecting passengers and crew, the updated rules aim to minimize risks associated with carrying potentially harmful substances on board.

The Royal Gazette announced these regulations on April 22, 2025, with immediate effect, replacing the previous guidelines established in 2019. The new measures apply not only to passengers but also to airline crew and airport staff, ensuring that everyone adheres to consistent safety practices. As air travel continues to evolve, understanding these changes is crucial for a smooth and hassle-free journey.

This article provides a comprehensive overview of the new rules, including container limits, screening procedures, exemptions, and essential packing tips for travelers. Whether you’re a frequent flyer or planning your first trip, being informed will help you navigate these regulations effectively.

Updated Security Measures

On April 22, 2025, the Royal Gazette announced immediate changes to the guidelines concerning LGAs. The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) is enforcing these rules to ensure safety for passengers, crew members, and airport personnel.

Key Aspects of the New Regulations

All LGAs will undergo rigorous screening before they are allowed into restricted areas or aircraft cabins. The term "LGAs" encompasses a variety of items, including:

  • Beverages and Soups: This includes any drinks, such as water, juices, and soups.
  • Cosmetics and Toiletries: Items like toothpaste, lotions, and creams fall under this category.
  • Pressurized Containers: This includes items like spray deodorants and shaving foams.
  • Solid-Liquid Mixtures: Products such as mascara and lip balm are also classified as LGAs.

Container Limits

  1. Individual Container Size: Each container holding liquids, gels, or aerosols must not exceed 100 milliliters. This rule applies even if the container is not full.

  2. Total Volume Allowance: Passengers can carry several small containers, but the total volume of all LGAs must not exceed one liter per person.

  3. Re-sealable Bag Requirement: Travelers are required to place these containers in a single, transparent, re-sealable plastic bag. This bag can hold a maximum of one liter and is limited to one bag per passenger. Security staff will screen this bag separately.

Additional Screening Procedures

At security checkpoints, personnel will conduct separate screenings for the transparent bag containing LGAs. However, if the airport uses advanced X-ray technology, it may allow for the inspection of these items within carry-on luggage.

Larger Quantities in Hold Luggage

If you have liquids, gels, or aerosols in containers larger than 100 milliliters or exceeding the one-liter total limit, these items must be checked in as hold luggage.

Prohibited Items

The new regulations strictly prohibit any individual container of liquids larger than 100 milliliters from being brought into the cabin. This measure aims to prevent the transport of large quantities of potentially harmful substances. Here’s a breakdown of restricted items:

  • Beverages and Liquids: All drinks, including water and juices, must comply with the 100ml limit. Larger bottles purchased before security must be checked in.

  • Gels and Lotions: This includes lotions, creams, moisturizers, and other similar products.

  • Cosmetics: Items like mascara, liquid foundation, and lip gloss are subject to the new size limits.

  • Aerosols and Sprays: Perfumes, deodorants, and hair sprays must be packed according to these regulations, even if they appear to be partially full.

  • Pressurized Containers: Items such as whipped cream cans must also adhere to the 100ml limit.

Exemptions to the Rules

Certain essential items are permitted in quantities exceeding the standard limits but must still undergo security screening. These exemptions include:

  1. Medications: Passengers can carry essential medications with proper documentation, such as a doctor’s note or a prescription label that matches the traveler’s name.

  2. Baby Food and Special Diet Items: Travelers with necessary baby milk or dietary food for medical reasons can bring what they need for the duration of the flight, subject to inspection.

  3. Crew and Essential Personnel: Airline crew members and airport staff may carry reasonable amounts of LGAs needed during their duty hours, but they must still pass security checks.

  4. Emergency and Airport Staff: Personnel authorized to access restricted areas or respond to emergencies can carry duty-related LGAs, provided they pass screening.

  5. Duty-Free Purchases: Liquids bought at airport duty-free shops or on board aircraft are allowed if they are sealed in tamper-evident bags with proof of same-day purchase.

Important Reminders

  • Transit Passengers: Those transferring through Thai airports must present duty-free items at security checkpoints during layovers.

  • Packing Tips: If you purchase LGAs before passing through security, pack them in your checked luggage to avoid issues.

  • Transparent Bag: Always carry a transparent, re-sealable one-liter bag in your hand luggage for seamless security checks.

  • Medication Documentation: Keep any necessary documentation for medications easily accessible to expedite the screening process.

Additional Tips for Travelers

  1. Plan Ahead: Before your trip, review the specific liquid regulations for your airline and any transit airports. This will help you avoid surprises at security.

  2. Minimize LGAs: Consider whether you can purchase items such as toiletries at your destination to reduce the amount you need to carry.

  3. Use Travel-Sized Containers: If you take products in your hand luggage, use travel-sized containers to comply with the regulations and save space.

  4. Organize Your Bag: Keep your transparent bag easily accessible within your carry-on to streamline the security process.

  5. Stay Informed: Check for any updates to regulations before your flight, as security measures may change based on current assessments.

Thailand’s updated regulations for transporting liquids, gels, and aerosols aim to enhance the safety of air travel while aligning with international security standards. Travelers should prepare accordingly to navigate these new procedures effectively. Expect to see clear signage throughout airports to guide you through the updated screening process, ensuring a smoother journey for everyone.

 

Emirates Group Launches Global Drive to Hire 17,300, Fueling Aviation's Future

Published: Friday, July 25, 2025
Emirates Group Launches Global Drive to Hire 17,300, Fueling Aviation's Future

On 22 July 2025, Dubai, UAE, the Emirates Group launched an extensive global talent acquisition campaign aimed at recruiting 17,300 professionals during the current financial year. This hiring goal is symbolic, matching the population size of a mid-size town or the seating capacity of 58 Airbus A350 aircraft. The recruitment drive is part of the Group’s ongoing expansion strategy, reinforcing its industry-leading position.

The available opportunities span across 350 different roles across Emirates and dnata, the two flagship businesses under the Group. Emirates, recognized as the world’s most profitable and largest international airline, along with dnata, a global leader in air and travel services, are looking to fill positions that include cabin crew, pilots, engineers, commercial and sales teams, customer service, ground handling, catering, IT, human resources, and finance. Notably, dnata alone seeks over 4,000 specialists in cargo, catering, and ground handling operations.

HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline & Group, emphasized that this ambitious recruitment is aligned with Dubai’s Economic Agenda D33 and the Group’s growth trajectory. He expressed that the goal is to attract world-class talent capable of driving innovation, excellence, and the future transformation of the aviation industry. He views this initiative as an opportunity for skilled professionals to become integral to the Group’s ongoing success and expansion.

To reach potential candidates globally, the Emirates Group will hold over 2,100 open days and various talent acquisition events across 150 cities throughout the year. These events will provide a chance for prospective pilots, IT professionals, engineers, and cabin crew members to engage directly with recruitment teams and long-serving Emirates employees sharing their experiences. In addition to international outreach, Dubai-based events will focus on involving UAE national students and graduates, supporting national workforce development.

Since 2022, the Emirates Group has recruited more than 41,000 professionals, with nearly 27,000 in operational roles, contributing to the current workforce size of approximately 121,000 employees. The Group continues to be a magnet for talent around the world due to its strong brand reputation, people-centric policies, tax-free remuneration, comprehensive benefits, and esteemed training and career development programs.

In the past financial year alone, the Group received in excess of 3.7 million job applications, illustrating its global appeal. Candidates are drawn to Dubai not only for professional opportunities but also for the city’s safety, economic stability, advanced technological infrastructure, forward-looking policies, and vibrant lifestyle.

For those residing in Dubai and working for the Emirates Group, benefits are extensive, including eligibility for profit sharing, comprehensive medical and life insurance coverage, a wide array of travel benefits encompassing annual and service-related leave tickets, concessional rates for family and friends, discounted cargo rates, and membership privileges unlocking reductions at hundreds of retail, hospitality, and lifestyle destinations.

Candidates interested in joining the Emirates Group can explore available positions and upcoming recruitment events worldwide by visiting the Group’s official careers portal. This recruitment drive showcases the Emirates Group’s unwavering commitment to growth, innovation, and maintaining its status as a global employer of choice, while welcoming talented professionals prepared to contribute to shaping the future of aviation.

India rolls out e-visa for Kuwait from July 14 — 5-year tourist visas now offered

Published: Tuesday, July 15, 2025
India rolls out e-visa for Kuwait from July 14 — 5-year tourist visas now offered

In a landmark move to simplify travel and enhance bilateral relations, Kuwaiti citizens can now apply for Indian e-visas entirely online beginning Monday, July 14, 2025. The announcement was made by Dr. Adarsh Swaika, India’s Ambassador to Kuwait, who described the launch as a “qualitative shift” in India-Kuwait engagement.

The new digital platform covers five visa categories: tourism, business, medical, conference, and AYUSH (alternative medicine including yoga and Ayurveda). Applicants no longer need to visit visa centers; all steps including application submission, document upload, and payment are completed online.

Key features of the e-visa system include:

Tourist visas valid for up to five years at a fee of $80
Other visa fees range from $40 to $80 depending on type and duration
Biometric data collection upon arrival at Indian airports
Typical processing time of three to four days, with minor technical issues possible during rollout

Ambassador Swaika emphasized that this initiative responds to a long-standing request from Kuwaiti citizens and reflects the deep historic and cultural ties between the two nations. The move also aligns with India’s broader efforts to modernize consular services and strengthen diplomatic and people-to-people connections in the Gulf region.

The e-visa allows for a variety of short-term activities such as tourism, business meetings, medical treatment (including under Indian traditional medicine systems), attending conferences, and participation in yoga or Ayurveda programs.

Applicants must hold a passport valid for at least six months and possess a return or onward ticket. The Indian Consulate in Kuwait will continue to accept paper visa applications for those who prefer traditional processing.

This digital visa rollout is expected to boost travel, trade, and cultural exchange between India and Kuwait, supporting the growing interest among Kuwaitis in Indian tourism, healthcare, and business opportunities.
For more information and to apply, Kuwaiti citizens can access the official Indian e-visa portal, which provides guidance in both English and Arabic.

This development marks a significant step forward in facilitating seamless cross-border travel and enhancing the longstanding friendship between India and Kuwait.

UAE denies lifetime Golden Visa for Indians, Bangladeshis; rejects ₹23 lakh claim

Published: Thursday, July 10, 2025
UAE denies lifetime Golden Visa for Indians, Bangladeshis; rejects ₹23 lakh claim

The United Arab Emirates has officially denied rumours of a lifetime Golden Visa offer for Indians and certain other nationalities, following widespread reports and social media buzz suggesting otherwise. The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) of Abu Dhabi clarified that no lifetime Golden Visa scheme exists, and all applications are processed strictly through official government channels within the UAE.

The ICP emphasized that the eligibility categories, conditions, and regulations for the Golden Visa are clearly defined by UAE laws and ministerial decisions, and no internal or external consultancy or commercial entity is authorized to handle or facilitate visa applications. This statement was issued in response to misleading reports claiming that Indians and Bangladeshis could obtain a lifetime Golden Visa for a fee of approximately ₹23 lakh (AED 100,000) through private consultancies, notably the Dubai-based Rayad Group, which later apologized for the confusion caused.

The authority warned the public against falling prey to fraudulent schemes promising simplified or guaranteed visa approvals, noting that such claims have no legal basis and were made without coordination with UAE authorities. The ICP also announced that legal action will be taken against entities spreading false information and illegally collecting money from hopeful applicants.

Applicants seeking accurate and up-to-date information on the UAE Golden Visa program are urged to rely solely on official sources, such as the ICP’s website and smart application platforms. The Golden Visa process remains transparent and regulated, with no shortcuts or lifetime residency offers outside the established legal framework.

This clarification comes amid growing enthusiasm among Indian nationals for UAE residency options, but the ICP’s firm denial aims to curb misinformation and protect applicants from exploitation.

Old Muscat Airport to Be Transformed into Vibrant Leisure and Entertainment Hub

Published: Thursday, July 03, 2025
Old Muscat Airport to Be Transformed into Vibrant Leisure and Entertainment Hub

Authorities in Oman have unveiled detailed plans to transform the old Muscat airport terminal, which spans a 50,000 square meter site, into a major leisure and commercial destination. The redevelopment will follow a Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) model, with interested developers invited to submit Expressions of Interest by July 9, 2024.

Overseeing the project is Oman Airports Management Company, part of the Oman Investment Authority, which aims to create an upscale, mixed-use hub that integrates retail outlets, restaurants, business centers, and multi-level parking, alongside a proposed aviation museum to celebrate Oman's aviation history.

The site’s prime location at the intersection of Sultan Qaboos Highway and Muscat Expressway ensures excellent connectivity to major city landmarks, including the Oman Convention & Exhibition Center, luxury hotels, and shopping malls. The Greater Muscat Master Plan also anticipates a future metro station adjacent to the site, which is expected to drive significant visitor traffic and commercial interest.

The old terminal, which opened in 1973 and served as Oman’s main airport until 2018, will be revitalized to honor its historical significance while providing modern amenities. The aviation-themed redevelopment will include an aviation museum, shopping centers, restaurants, and entertainment venues, aiming to attract both local residents and tourists.

The project is designed to enhance Muscat’s urban landscape and contribute to the city’s economic development by drawing high-end tenants, investors, and real estate developers.

The transformation is also aligned with Oman’s National Aviation Strategy 2030, which seeks to attract $3.6 billion in airport city investments and open the sector to private and international investors. The redevelopment emphasizes sustainability by repurposing the existing terminal structure, reducing environmental impact compared to new construction.

The selection process for the developer will continue through the summer, with site visits already scheduled for interested bidders. Once completed, the new leisure hub is expected to become a landmark destination, reflecting both Oman's aviation legacy and its ambitions for future growth

Paris Air Show 2025

Europe’s Best Airline for 2025: Turkish Airlines Takes the Crown

Turkish Airlines Named Europe’s Best Airline for 2025, Outperforming Major Competitors in Service, Comfort, and Passenger Satisfaction
Published: Monday, June 23, 2025
Europe’s Best Airline for 2025: Turkish Airlines Takes the Crown

Turkish Airlines has been officially crowned “Best Airline in Europe” for the tenth time at the 2025 Skytrax World Airline Awards, held at the Air and Space Museum in Paris on June 17. This milestone achievement was determined by the votes of millions of passengers from over 100 nationalities, who participated in the world’s largest airline satisfaction survey between September 2024 and May 2025.

The Turkish flag carrier’s consistent excellence was further highlighted by a sweep of eight major awards, including “World’s Best Business Class Onboard Catering,” “Best Airline in Southern Europe,” “Best Economy Class in Europe,” and “Best Economy Class Onboard Catering in Europe,” underscoring its dominance in both premium and economy travel markets.

Turkish Airlines’ reputation for connecting more countries than any other airline remains unmatched, supported by a rapidly expanding fleet that is expected to reach approximately 530 aircraft by the end of 2025. The airline carried 85.2 million passengers in 2024, with strong growth continuing into 2025, as January alone saw 6.8 million travelers—a rise of over 8% from the previous year.

This growth is fueled by ongoing investments in new, fuel-efficient aircraft such as Airbus A321neos and A350s, and by a robust order book of more than 270 aircraft, positioning Istanbul as a major global aviation hub.

Service innovation is another pillar of Turkish Airlines’ success. By the end of 2025, the airline plans to offer all passengers free, unlimited, high-speed in-flight connectivity, retrofitting its entire fleet with the latest technology in partnership with leading local and international suppliers. A recent Memorandum of Understanding with TCI Aircraft Interiors and Turksat highlights Turkish Airlines’ commitment to supporting Turkish innovation in aviation technology.

Sustainability also features prominently in the airline’s agenda. The “Tomorrow On-Board” initiative, launched in 2024, sets out a comprehensive framework for sustainable operations, including the use of eco-friendly inflight products and transparent communication of environmental goals. This program aims to inspire both passengers and investors, reinforcing Turkish Airlines’ pledge to reduce its environmental impact and promote a better future for the industry.

Globally, Turkish Airlines’ recognition comes in a competitive landscape, with Qatar Airways taking the title of “World’s Best Airline,” followed by Singapore Airlines and Cathay Pacific.

Despite this, Turkish Airlines’ continued accolades in Europe and its strong operational performance underscore its status as a leader in global aviation, renowned for world-class service, innovative passenger experiences, and a commitment to sustainability