A Russian tourist was denied entry by Thailand immigration authorities after reports of disruptive behaviour on a flight from Vietnam to Bangkok, officials said on 31 January 2026.
Russian Tourist Thailand Involved in Mid-Air Incident
Passenger reports and foreign media said the 41-year-old Russian tourist, Thailand-bound, disrupted a flight from Nha Trang, a coastal city in Vietnam, to Bangkok. Witnesses said he removed his clothes, ran repeatedly in and out of the aircraft lavatory, argued with cabin crew, and demanded the aircraft door be opened while the plane was airborne. Passengers also reported shouting in Russian and visible signs of intoxication.
The Russian tourist who arrived in Thailand on a Thai AirAsia flight FD647 on 29 January. Airports of Thailand, the state-owned company managing major international airports, confirmed the incident. Immigration officers at Don Mueang International Airport, one of Bangkok’s main airports, conducted screening procedures after arrival.
Officials said the man appeared heavily intoxicated, spoke incoherently, and failed to explain the purpose of his visit. Officers also determined he did not meet financial entry requirements. Thai regulations require visitors to show proof of sufficient funds to support their stay.
Under the Immigration Act 1979, authorities hold legal authority to refuse entry to foreign nationals who pose a risk to public order or fail to meet entry conditions. Officials said the Russian tourist Thailand case met the criteria for refusal under the law.
Thai immigration authorities denied entry and deported the Russian tourist Thailand authorities cited on Thai AirAsia flight FD646 at 7:55 on 31 January. Officials said the action followed standard immigration procedures.
