Phuket Air Control Tower relayed the issue to airport ground crews at 10:32am, said Phuket Airport in a notice recognising the incident.
The aircraft in question was unable to move off the runway due to a failure in its hydraulic steering system, necessitating the use of a pushback tractor to clear the way.
The situation prompted the declaration of an Aircraft-On-Ground (AOG) situation, requiring immediate maintenance attention.
The malfunction resulted in a spillage of hydraulic oil onto the runway, posing a safety hazard for incoming and outgoing flights.
In response, Phuket Airport issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) alerting pilots to the closure of Runway 09/27 for cleanup operations.
Authorities also conducted evaluations of the runway’s surface friction to ensure compliance with safety standards.
Normal runway operations resumed at 11:37am.
A total of 15 flights were affected by the situation, confirmed the notice.
Five inbound flights were diverted to alternate airports, while five other inbound flights were "unable to land". Five outbound flights were delayed due to the runway closure.
As investigations into the aircraft malfunction continue, authorities are working to prevent similar incidents in the future and maintain the safety and efficiency of operations at Phuket Airport, said the notice.