(Agence France-Presse) Thailand's air safety body warned passengers Wednesday that lucky "child angel" dolls cannot be considered real people and must be properly stowed before take-off and landing.
The unusual clarification from the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) came in response to the latest superstitious craze sweeping the kingdom, where Thais are pampering lifelike dolls that are believed to contain the spirit of a real child hoping it will bring them good luck.
Known in Thai as "luuk thep" (child angels), the pricey dolls, which can cost up to $600, were first popularised by celebrities who claimed dressing up and feeding the dolls had brought them professional success.