The Thai Public Broadcasting Service is reporting that the Royal Thai Police have grounded their entire fleet – both helicopters and fixed wing.

This follows two fatal accidents within five weeks. On 25th April, a DHC-6-400 Twin Otter was destroyed when it crashed into the sea shortly after takeoff from Hua Hin Airport, with six fatalities.

Then on 24th May, a Bell 212 crashed during a Police training mission in Muang District, with three fatalities.

National Police Commissioner Pol. Gen. Kittirat Phanphet announced yesterday that he has ordered the Police Aviation Division to inspect every aircraft – presumably some level of airworthiness checks – before each one can fly again.

The statement included his intention to visit the Police Aviation Command this Wednesday in an offer of support to police airmen, and to hear their concerns.

This would be followed by a series of changes being implemented, including the decommissioning of older aircraft. The Bell 212 example this week has been in service for over 40 years.