The U.S. Navy’s nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln is set to make a port call in Thailand, marking its first opportunity to dock after nearly 280 days at sea.
The carrier, carrying around 5,000 sailors and crew members, is expected to arrive in the Pattaya area on Tuesday, September 1. The city has long been associated with U.S. military personnel as a popular rest and recreation destination, dating back to the Vietnam War era.
Authorities have increased security around Pattaya ahead of the carrier’s arrival, as thousands of U.S. personnel are expected to come ashore during the visit.
A Long Deployment
The USS Abraham Lincoln began its deployment from California in November 2025, initially heading toward the South China Sea before later being redirected to the Middle East.
Its operational schedule was subsequently altered ahead of the escalation involving the United States, Israel and Iran roughly six months ago.
The unusually long period at sea has also drawn attention inside the United States. Reports have raised concerns about living conditions aboard the carrier and the mental well-being of its crew, including reports involving attempted suicides.
Pattaya Prepares for Thousands of Sailors
Pattaya Mayor Porames Ngampiches said the massive warship is expected to arrive at Laem Chabang port shortly after midnight local time.
In a social media post, the mayor said the visit would give the sailors their first chance in almost 280 days to spend time ashore.
Local authorities have said they will focus on maintaining security while also ensuring that sailors can enjoy their time in the city. Officials have additionally urged local businesses not to take advantage of the influx of visitors by charging excessive prices.
The port visit is expected to provide a brief period of rest for the crew following one of the carrier’s longest stretches of continuous operations at sea.
