Thai Asian Games teams delayed by flooding

Severe flooding in the Bangkok metropolitan area caused significant travel disruptions for members of the Thai national teams traveling to the Asian Games in Nagoya, Japan. Athletes and officials from the wrestling, golf, and rugby teams were stranded at the airport for approximately eight hours due to a shortage of staff.

The flooding prevented baggage handlers from loading suitcases and essential sporting equipment onto Thai Airways flight TG644. While the flight was originally scheduled to depart at 12:05 AM on September 27, the delay lasted until roughly 8:00 AM. Officials noted that the teams could not depart earlier because they required their training gear and personal belongings to be transported with them.

Navy Captain Thanwit Khrueasin, a coach for the Thai national rugby team, expressed understanding of the situation caused by the weather but noted the difficulty of the long wait at the departure gate. The teams eventually departed for Japan following the delay.