Flooding delays Thai Asian Games teams at airport by 8 hours

Bangkok, September 27, 2026 — Severe flooding in Thailand caused significant travel disruptions for members of the Thai national team preparing for the 2026 Asian Games in Nagoya, Japan. Wrestlers, golfers, and rugby players found themselves stranded at Bangkok's airport for several hours after their baggage and sports equipment could not be loaded onto their flight.

The team was originally set to depart on Thai Airways flight TG644 at 00:05 on September 27, but the delay occurred due to baggage-handling staff being unable to report for work because of the flooding. This meant the athletes' luggage and training equipment could not be loaded onto the aircraft, forcing them to travel without essential gear.

Rugby coach Navy Capt. Thanyawit Kruasint confirmed that the disruption affected both the men's and women's rugby teams, along with athletes from other sports on the same flight. Thai Airways initially informed passengers that the flight would be delayed indefinitely, but as of 06:40 on September 27, the athletes and other travelers remained at the gate for over six hours.

Thanyawit expressed understanding for the situation and hoped the flooding would subside quickly so staff could return to work and handle the baggage. The athletes finally departed at 08:00 on September 27, after waiting at the airport for several hours due to the flooding.