The campaign was officially launched on Tuesday (July 21) at Gate 7 on the ground floor of the airport’s International Passenger Terminal. Airport General Manager Monchai Tanode presided over the event, which was attended by airport executives and staff, officers from the Phuket Tourist Police, Sakhu Police, the Phuket Land Transport Office (PLTO), and representatives of taxi and other public transport operators.
Speaking at the launch, Mr Monchai said the airport was committed to continually improving safety standards for passengers and visitors using Phuket International Airport.
He said the ‘White Airport’ project aims to improve traffic discipline, promote safe driving practices, reduce the risk of road accidents and combat drug use among public transport operators serving the airport.
As part of the campaign, authorities are inspecting buses and other public transport vehicles to ensure they meet safety standards, while drivers are being subjected to urine drug tests to confirm they are fit to carry passengers.
Mr Monchai said the initiative was a joint effort involving government agencies and private-sector operators to create a safe, transparent and drug-free transport environment while strengthening Phuket Airport’s reputation as an international tourism gateway.
However, officials have so far not disclosed whether any drivers tested positive during the operation.
The announcement also did not explain what action would be taken against any drivers found to have illegal drugs in their system.
The omission follows a long-standing pattern supported by PLTO, led by Chief Adcha Buachan, which regularly publicises roadside drug-testing campaigns and safety inspections but does not release the results of those tests or confirm what penalties are imposed on drivers who test positive.