Three people were killed when a jet ski struck a boat in a canal next to a Thai airport during a race.

Two passengers and their boatman were in the wooden longtail motorboat on the Nong Nguhao canal in Samut Prakan province on the outskirts of Bangkok when Kabin Chumpol, 37, lost control of his jet ski on October 28.

The rider fell from his watercraft, which smashed into the midsection of the victim's vessel, causing it to sink.

Bang Sao Thong Police Station said they received a report of the crash at 10:30 am. They found three people dead at the scene with severe injuries.

The casualties were identified as boat operator Sarawut Auamwongprem, 28, and passengers Krisada Worasukhang, 30, and Warissara Saengjan, 29, from the nearby city.

Onlookers said the rider Kabin was flung off his jet ski due to strong currents. They added that the long-tail boat had been on the correct side of the canal, away from the race track, when the accident happened.

Police said they have collected evidence and detained Kabin at the police station for questioning. Officials said investigations were ongoing.