Aviation security experts warn travellers to be alert

Bangkok Thailand, April 22, 2010. The ASA Group, an Asian VIP aviation security specialist with a base in Bangkok, is on high alert as pressure mounts on Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva and his government to resign. The Thai army has made it clear that it will use live ammunition against “red-shirt” anti-government protesters in certain circumstances and told journalists that troops are ready to use their weapons “decisively.”

Simon Wagstaff, ASA’s managing director said: “We are warning our clients to keep a close eye on the news, and make plans for an alternative means of getting out of the country. They should ensure that they carry a phone number for a security specialist firm, such as ourselves, should trouble flare up suddenly.” Tension is escalating in the Thai capital. Last week 21 people died in the deadliest clashes to hit Bangkok since 1992. Seventeen civilians were killed, as well as four police officers with a further 800 people injured. Red shirt protestors are calling for a new election after officials ruled that Abhisit’s Democrat Party failed to declare more than 258m baht ($8m; £5.2m) in donations during the 2005 election.

In recent months ASA has been called on to assist VIP passengers to exit Thailand after demonstrators seized control of Bangkok’s International Suvarnabhumi airport. Wagstaff also pointed out that the demonstrators bear no grievance against passengers. He said: “Bangkok is as safe as it ever was for the average person. At the moment life is going on as normal, however, we are warning our clients to be cautious.” He added: “I have lived in Thailand for several years and the people are generally extremely patient and easy going. However, during these uncertain times, trouble could break out at any moment and it is wise to have strategies in place to avoid danger.”

Wagstaff is a decorated British soldier, whose expertise derives from three decades of experience, as well as advanced aviation security management training at the International Centre for Air Transport Management in Tel Aviv. His work entails escorting VVIPs throughout the region, including heads of state and A-listers, who require the utmost discretion and top security. He says: “If any executive aviation travellers are worried about the situation in Thailand at the moment, they are welcome to call us. We give a daily update to an international security and intelligence newsletter, which is subscribed to by thousands of businesses and individuals worldwide, so we have up to the minute information.”