Thai Airways Suspends Flight Attendant Over Heroin Smuggling

Thai Airways stated that a flight attendant arrested by Australian police with heroin has clearly violated company discipline. The airline's HR director, Janthrika Chotiksathian, clarified the company's internal procedures, disciplinary measures, personnel screening and training protocols. She emphasized that this was an individual act and does not reflect on the airline's safety standards.

The attendant, who began working for Thai Airways in 2566-2567, earned a base salary of 15,000-20,000 baht monthly, with total monthly income averaging 50,000-60,000 baht including flight pay and other compensation.

When disciplinary cases arise, the airline suspends the employee and forms an investigation committee, allowing the employee to clarify their position. Thai Airways stated it does not tolerate any disciplinary violations and has strict rules prohibiting pilots and crew from accepting items for transport, or misusing their company position for personal gain.

Chotiksathian emphasized that the incident must be separated from aviation safety concerns, as it reflects individual behavior, not systemic problems. She confirmed the airline maintains strict 3S standards—Service, Safety and Security—and that the company president has ordered a comprehensive review of all organizational rules and measures to identify and address any potential vulnerabilities. The airline reaffirmed its commitment to operational excellence and safety standards.