Airbus partnership aims to turn Thailand into aviation powerhouse
Thailand is gearing up to soar as the region’s top aviation hub, thanks to a high-flying partnership with European aerospace giant Airbus.
In a bid to revolutionise the nation’s aviation infrastructure and safety standards, Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit met Airbus Asia-Pacific president Anand Stanley in Bangkok yesterday, December 3, to map out ambitious plans.
The partnership focuses on transforming Thailand into a bustling aviation hub capable of handling 250 million passengers annually by 2032.
“We are committed to expanding aviation infrastructure and achieving international safety standards.”
A key highlight is the development of Andaman Airport on the southern west coast, expected to accommodate 22.5 million passengers annually across long- and short-haul routes.
Sustainability is also on the radar. Airbus, already working with Thailand’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAAT) under a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), is leading initiatives to monitor and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This includes pioneering sustainable aviation fuel and environmental reporting systems, reported The Nation.
“Airbus has supported efforts to enhance human resource capacity, organise seminars, and provide technical assistance,” Suriya said, crediting the corporation with funding key regulatory developments to align Thailand’s aviation standards with international benchmarks.
Anand Stanley highlighted Airbus’ unwavering commitment to bolstering Thailand’s aviation sector.
“We are confident that our expertise and innovations will elevate Thailand’s aviation safety and pave the way for a sustainable future.”
In related news, the Ministry of Transport announced a new year’s gift for travellers, addressing the issue of expensive flight tickets by collaborating with airlines to offer a 30% discount on 50,000 seats during the new year holiday period.
In other news, the ministry is advancing six airport development and construction projects to position the country as a regional transportation hub.
Deputy Transport Minister Manaporn Charoensri announced that representatives from the ministry’s Airport Department, Airports of Thailand, Aeronautical Radio of Thailand, and other relevant agencies recently attended the 59th Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) Conference in the Philippines.
