RTAF’s C-130 airplane skids off Samui tarmac, no injuries reported
The Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF)’s C-130 military aircraft skidded off the parking area at Samui Airport in Surat Thani province during a training mission on Saturday, according to an RTAF’s statement. No injuries were reported.
RTAF spokesperson Air Vice Marshal Prapas Sonjaidee revealed that the incident occurred at approximately 2:30 PM, when a C-130 transport aircraft (Type 8), under Squadron 601, Wing 6, was conducting a routine flight training route from Don Mueang–Trang–Samui–Don Mueang.
Upon stopping at Samui Airport and while performing standard ground engine startup procedures, the pilot identified a brake system malfunction and was unable to control the aircraft, causing it to move forward beyond the designated parking zone, he said.
The aircraft grazed a light pole and eventually came to a stop at a nearby shrubbery. The pilot immediately enacted emergency procedures and safely evacuated all personnel through the rear exit. There were 8 crew members and 54 passengers on board — a total of 62 people — all of whom were unharmed.
RTAF reported initial damage including the left wing’s leading edge hitting the light pole and the aircraft’s front section making contact with a parking sign and surrounding vegetation.
“The Royal Thai Air Force emphasized its commitment to flight safety and public safety, affirming that the incident posed no risk to the public or airport infrastructure,” said Prapas. “An official investigation has been launched by the Air Force Safety Office to determine the cause and prevent future occurrences.
