Isan's bong fai rockets pose threat to aircraft

Ubon Ratchathani - Organisers of Isan-style rocket bong fai festivals are being strongly advised to inform the provincial airport in advance of their rocket launches for safety reasons.

Airport director Ampawan Wannako has voiced grave concern about threats posed to aircraft as some bong fai rockets soar as high as 8,000-10,000 feet.

She said the airport's aeronautical radio centre cannot detect bong fai on radar because they are made of bamboo poles.

Mrs Ampawan said near misses were recently reported by a commercial aircraft and a rain-making plane of the Department of Agriculture and Cooperatives.

The commercial flight was approaching the airport for a landing when a bong fai rocketed past. The pilot had to adjust his approach to a safer direction.

''This caused flight delays, and above all, posed a great threat to the safety of passengers. Villages and communities are strongly urged to inform the airport in advance of their rocket festivals,'' she said.

Annual bong fai festivals are held in many northeastern provinces during April and May, the onset of the monsoon season, to implore holy spirits to bring seasonal rain. In recent years such festivals have been turned into tourist attractions.

Bangkok Post

Last Updated : Saturday April 21, 2007