The pilot of an Air India flight from Phuket to Delhi is undergoing a confirmatory drug test after an initial dope test result was reported as 'not negative' following a severe turbulence incident. The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) is investigating the event.
WorldAl JazeeraTimes of Indiahindustan-times+3iefimeridandtvnewsbeast3d ago6 sources
An Air India flight from Phuket to Delhi experienced severe turbulence, causing the aircraft to drop 300 feet and injuring 17 passengers and crew members. Passengers reported being thrown towards the ceiling during the five-minute ordeal.
Russian traveler and professional illusionist Andrei Pavlov completed an extraordinary 86-day journey, cycling approximately 12,000 kilometers from Phuket, Thailand, to his home in Crimea.
Thai authorities returned to Nui Beach in Phuket to demolish 50 illegal structures, more than a decade after courts ruled the land belonged to the state. This action aims to reclaim the popular beach from encroachers.
Security camera footage from a hotel kitchen in Patong, Phuket, shows a head chef assaulting a 20-year-old intern by slapping her head, striking her arm with a spatula, and forcing her to eat undercooked rice.
Authorities at Delhi airport seized 6.4 kg of hydroponic weed from aircraft lavatories, under seats, and in baggage, leading to the arrest of three individuals arriving from Bangkok and Phuket.
16-year-old singer-guitarist Nene Royal from Phuket has become an online sensation after receiving unanimous 'Yes' votes from the judges on America’s Got Talent, advancing to the next round.
A third suspect in the Eschweiler homejacking case has been apprehended at a holiday resort in Phuket, with two alleged perpetrators already arrested in January.
Phuket's luxury residential market is projected to maintain its resilience through 2026, driven by consistent foreign demand, increasing land values, and a high interest in branded residences despite growing competition among developers.
A Phuket assistant governor has been arrested on charges of acting as a middleman in a recruitment scam, where three victims allegedly paid 900,000 baht in bribes.
Authorities in Phuket are evaluating a proposal to increase the provincial hotel tax from 1% to 3% of room rates, aiming to generate additional revenue for local development and tourism promotion.
Phuket Airport has opened its first international arrivals autogates and plans to more than double their number from 10 to 21, while reducing manual immigration counters to expedite the arrival process.
Russian nationals recorded a 33% surge in condominium transfers in Thailand during the first quarter of 2026, making them the only top-five foreign buyer nationality to show growth, with Phuket seeing the highest transaction value.
David and Victoria Beckham have officially achieved billionaire status, making David the first British sportsman to reach this financial milestone. Their combined net worth has been revealed, highlighting their significant wealth accumulation.
Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has been released from prison on parole, having served a portion of his sentence. He was reportedly fitted with an electronic ankle monitor as part of his release conditions.
A preliminary environmental assessment has concluded that Phuket's proposed seaplane project would have minimal negative environmental impact while fostering high-end tourism and creating new economic opportunities for local communities.
Thai police have arrested an Indonesian national in Phuket who was wanted for a cyberfraud scheme estimated to be worth between $10 million and $12.8 million. The arrest follows an international warrant for the suspect.
Two 24-year-old French tourists were arrested in Thailand after a video of them engaging in sexual activity on a Phuket beach went viral on social media. They claimed unawareness that it was a crime.
A French couple, 24-year-old Allan and Nadia, caused intense anger among locals in Thailand after being filmed engaging in sexual acts in public view on a secluded beach in Phuket.
Chinese President Xi Jinping stated that China will under no circumstances tolerate Taiwan's independence, accusing the island of undermining peace in the Taiwan Strait, during a meeting with Taiwan's opposition leader.
Botanica Luxury Villas is capitalizing on Phuket's growing status as a global luxury property hub with the launch of its new HYTHE by Botanica project.
The Southern Chapter of the Thai Hotels Association has called on authorities to increase direct flights from Europe to Phuket, aiming to stabilize tourism affected by travel disruptions stemming from the Middle East war.
An Air India flight to Thailand experienced a nose wheel issue, leading to a hard landing at Phuket airport, with video footage of the incident emerging.
A 57-year-old British tourist died in Phuket, Thailand, after being struck by a Swedish man in a fight, with police reporting the victim was hit with a karate chop to the neck.
An oil spill off the coast of Thailand has reached the beaches of popular tourist destinations, with the pollution originating from a sunken cargo ship located at a depth of 60 meters.
An oil spill from the capsized cargo ship Sealloyd Arc has reached Koh Hey, a tourist island off Phuket, Thailand, prompting ongoing clean-up operations.
Phuket tourism operators oppose the government's policy allowing foreigners who buy real estate worth 3 million baht to qualify for a long‑stay visa, arguing the investment threshold is too low and could attract "non‑quality" visitors who may engage in illegal activities, as well as risking an increase in property prices, making housing less affordable for local residents.
The Brussels Times has published multiple spam articles containing keywords related to the purchase and sale of cocaine and other drugs in various cities worldwide. These articles appear to be illicit advertisements for drug markets.
A family has alleged significant lapses after severe turbulence on Air India flight AI2379 from Phuket to Delhi caused injuries to passengers. The daughter of an injured passenger described the harrowing experience.
BusinessTimes of Indiahindustan-timesindian-express+1jerusalem-post4d ago4 sources
An Air India flight traveling from Phuket to Delhi encountered severe mid-air turbulence, causing the aircraft to drop significantly and injuring at least 12 passengers and crew members. Passengers described a chaotic scene with heads hitting overhead bins and a baby being hurt.
A Belgian man wanted for attempted murder, subject to an international arrest warrant via Interpol, has been apprehended in Phuket, Thailand, as confirmed by federal police.
Thailand's Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has commended a nine-year-old student from Phuket for winning two world coding titles and achieving a global No.1 ranking at an international competition in Italy.
Thailand's Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment has intensified efforts to reclaim 25 rai of protected land within Sirinat National Park in Phuket's Thalang district.
A 21-year-old Belgian tourist was arrested at Phuket airport upon her return from vacation with suitcases full of cannabis and faces a heavy prison sentence.
The Sultan of Kedah has advised that the development of Langkawi Island should focus on shaping its unique identity rather than imitating destinations like Phuket or Bali.
Europe's severe heatwave and surging airfares are deterring European tourists from visiting Thailand, leading Phuket hotels to significantly slash low-season rates.
Operators of businesses encroaching on Nui Beach in Phuket have been ordered to demolish their structures and return the land to the Royal Forestry Department by July 9, or face legal action.
Thailand is accelerating the expansion of its regional airport infrastructure, planning six new domestic airports worth approximately 26 billion baht (€670 million) to redirect tourists away from Bangkok and Phuket.
Central Land and Development, a division of Central Group, is investing 730 million baht to open two new community malls in Pattaya and Phuket, Thailand.
Thailand is increasing surveillance and reinforcing rules for tourists following incidents of sexual misconduct, particularly by Europeans in Phuket. The government warns that "inappropriate behavior" will face consequences.
Southern Thailand tourism operators are urging the government for increased support and incentives to facilitate a green transition, following an international sustainable tourism conference held in Phuket.
An Irish teacher, who previously worked in Abu Dhabi, shares her positive experience of living in Phuket, Thailand, describing it as one of the best countries for a gay woman.
The tourist island of Phuket, Thailand, is facing a potential water shortage if the upcoming wet season is delayed and substantial rainfall does not occur within the next three months.
Zrakoplov aviokompanije Air India Express, koji je u srijedu letio iz Hyderabada, imao je velikih problema tijekom “tvrdog slijetanja” u ¨Phuketu u Tajlandu.
A woman, believed to be Indian, was captured on CCTV footage stealing a suitcase at Phuket International Airport in Thailand. The incident is under investigation by local authorities.
A Swedish man has been arrested in Phuket, Thailand, on suspicion of killing a tourist with a karate chop to the neck, causing the victim to fall and die.
A man named Roman has been waiting for his luggage for ten days after flying from Phuket to Zurich, as his suitcase is still held in Phuket due to a lighter found inside.
Cheska Hull decided to call off her wedding and move to Phuket, Thailand with her son.
Provided by Cheska Hull
Cheska Hull left the UK for Thailand after calling off her engagement.
A networking connection in Phuket landed her a hotel PR job.
She says Phuket offers her the perfect blend of career and high quality of life for her and her son.
This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Cheska Hull, 40, a British reality TV star and PR professional who relocated to Phuket. Her words have been edited for length and clarity.
My move to Phuket was about choosing a fabulous place to live while continuing my freelance career.
I feel like I've been part of the island's community for years. I'd visit annually for a couple of weeks at a time, maintain friendships, and get to know local business owners.
Every trip had me dreaming about potential jobs and interesting opportunities. I'm a PR specialist who has always worked in the luxury sector, across food, beverage, and hospitality. In London, I specialized in private members' clubs.
That work also led me into radio and television, where I starred in the reality show "Made in Chelsea" for nearly four years. It helped me understand the evolving world of influencers and celebrities. Having lived on both sides of the PR and fame spectrum, I gained a deep understanding of that industry.
Her life in London involved hosting A-list celebrities and attending big events.
Provided by Cheska Hull
I happened to be born in Thailand
My parents lived in Phuket in the 1980s, when my dad was head of Standard Chartered Bank for Phuket, which is why I was born here. We moved back to England when I was young.
Being born in Thailand didn't simplify moving back as an expat. I still had to go through all the same steps as everyone else.
Initially, I came on a DTV digital nomad visa while freelancing for my UK clients. I told all of them, "I want to live in Thailand. That's my dream."
I wanted the best of both worlds.
There were a few reasons for the move
I've always been drawn to the famous Thai "sabai sabai" — take-it-easy — lifestyle. But when it comes to business, I'm driven. I could never just move to Phuket and not work.
Even between projects, I was constantly networking, talking to people, and pushing for collaborations with brands I'd worked with before. Now, I get to do what I've always loved in a place I love.
My son was also at the right age for a big change. As a single mom, the stress came from knowing how significant the move was and wondering, "Have I made the right decision?" My main priority in life is his happiness.
If he hadn't been happy, I don't think we would have stayed. But he's 8, and he was able to fit in quickly — learning some Thai at school and thriving.
There was another catalyst, too. At the time, I was engaged to be married and realized that wasn't the path for me anymore. Once I called off the wedding, the door felt wide open.
Nothing was holding me back.
She says her 8-year-old son is learning Thai in school and was able to fit in quickly
Provided by Cheska Hull
Finding my career groove in Thailand
Browsing jobs in Phuket started as a guilty pleasure. Through meeting people and networking, someone told me about a new opening at Anantara, a hotel I already knew well. It seemed perfect. And so now, as cluster director of public relations, I have a work permit.
I've had to quickly learn Thai workplace customs, like addressing colleagues respectfully using "khun" before names or navigating the widespread use of nicknames. It's about understanding a different culture and being respectful within it.
One of my favorite rituals happens every Friday during my team's morning meeting. We go outside to a huge tree in front of the hotel with two spirit houses. We all take incense, make a prayer, and privately speak to the spirits. It's so different and unique, I find it special.
It's a meaningful part of their culture that I've come to love. I can't imagine trying to get everyone in London to do that, they'd laugh.
Cheska Hull decided to call off her wedding and move to Phuket, Thailand with her son.
Provided by Cheska Hull
Thailand is my long-term plan
There haven't been many hard parts to settling in. The main challenge of living on a small, seasonal island like Phuket is traffic. You get used to a calm pace, and then suddenly there's a massive influx of people. But that comes with the territory in hospitality and tourism, which is ultimately what we want here.
My move to Thailand is long-term. Looking back, there was an element of risk. I came with a bit of an "Eat, Pray, Love" vision. I knew I loved it here and wanted it to work, but I also told myself, "If it doesn't, you can just go back."
For me, the quality of life, the people, the food, the weather — just about everything about Phuket — makes it a place I want to call home forever. Island life simply couldn't be better right now.
Do you have a story to share about living abroad? Contact the editor at akarplus@businessinsider.com.
Read the original article on Business Insider
WorldFox Newsdelfi-ltTimes of India+120-minuten2d ago4 sources
An Air India flight from Phuket to Delhi experienced severe turbulence, causing the aircraft to drop 90 meters and resulting in 17 injuries among passengers and cabin crew. Passengers filmed the chaos on board after the incident.
The Royal Forestry Department has widened its crackdown on illegal land encroachment in Phuket. This initiative aims to reclaim and protect public land in the region.
The Thai government has escalated its efforts against illegal hotels in Phuket, following inspections that revealed three properties operating without proper licenses.
Buildings illegally encroaching on Phuket's Hat Nui beach are being demolished. This action aims to restore the natural environment and enforce land regulations.
A Belgian woman was arrested at Phuket airport in Thailand for possessing 31 kg of cannabis, bringing the total number of Belgians incarcerated abroad to a record 505.
Five fishermen discovered and rescued a stranded dugong baby, carrying it back into the water before alerting national park authorities who took the animal for rehabilitation in Phuket.
Singapore has announced a two-decade-long plan to transform Sentosa and Pulau Brani into a major tourism destination, featuring new attractions like beachfronts, canopy walks, and an integrated transport hub. The ambitious project aims to upgrade the holiday islands and link them with new developments.
The Interior Ministry in Thailand has intensified its investigation into suspected nominee businesses in Phuket, with approximately 200 additional companies slated for examination.
Authorities in Phuket are set to begin demolishing hotels that illegally encroach on beaches and reserved forest land starting next month, according to Natural Resources and Environment Minister Suchart Chomklin.
The cabinet approved the transfer of the Phuket governor and his two deputies following an order by Prime Minister Anutin Charvirakul, aimed at resolving internal conflict within the provincial administration.
Amidst broader instability, international business owners are increasingly looking to Phuket, Thailand, as a desirable location for purchasing second homes.
Lifeguards in Phuket have issued warnings to tourists about the presence of Portuguese man o' war, a jellyfish-like creature, on the beaches. Visitors are advised to exercise caution due to their venomous stings.
Thousands of Russians who fled their country after the invasion of Ukraine have established a community in Phuket, Thailand, though an underlying sense of impermanence pervades their new lives.
Thailand's first commercial seaplane operator plans to introduce flights connecting Phuket with various destinations across the Andaman region by September, targeting high-end tourists.
An Indian tourist has died and several others fainted one by one at a cafe in Phuket, Thailand, with authorities investigating the mysterious incident for which no obvious reason has been identified.
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul cut short his visit to Phuket to inspect an illegal warehouse in Ranong found to be storing smuggled electrical appliances worth approximately 50 million baht, reportedly belonging to a Myanmar national.
The Thai Meteorological Department has issued a warning for southern Thailand, including popular tourist islands like Phuket and Samui, forecasting a surge in thunderstorms from Wednesday through Saturday as the rainy season approaches.
Immigration authorities and real estate executives in Phuket held a briefing to clarify the new long-stay visa program designed to attract high-potential foreign real estate investors and boost economic activity in Thailand.
Thai police arrested seven French tourists following a viral confrontation during Songkran in Phuket, where they sprayed a van driver with water and ignored police orders to disperse.
The Surin Phuket, a 44-year-old property on Pansea Beach, is celebrated by guests for its 'simple luxury' and refined design by architect Ed Tuttle, leading to high return rates season after season.
Passengers on an Air India Express flight from Hyderabad experienced a severe landing at Phuket Airport on March 11, resulting in the aircraft's landing gear breaking on the runway.
An Air India Express flight from Hyderabad to Phuket suffered nose-wheel damage after a hard landing, leading to the temporary closure of Phuket airport's runway.
A 57-year-old British man was killed by a karate chop to the neck following a road rage altercation with a Swedish tourist on a moped in Phuket, Thailand.
A 58-year-old Australian tourist died after a violent assault on Patong beach in Phuket on Wednesday night, as police on Thursday arrested a 29-year-old Turkish man in connection with the assault.
The family of Adrián Palomino has successfully raised funds to medically repatriate him from Thailand to Spain. Palomino is in a coma in a Phuket hospital after a motorcycle accident.
The Thai government has instructed the Pollution Control Department to intensify monitoring after the cargo vessel SEALLOYD ARC sank off the coast of Phuket.