AoT tee up 3 billion baht compensation swing for RTAF
Thailand’s Defense Ministry spokesperson, Jirayu Houngsub, revealed yesterday that the Airports of Thailand (AoT) could be liable for a compensation payment of at least 3 billion baht to the Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF). This potential payment is in relation to the Kantarat Golf Course, a property currently owned by the RTAF, which the AoT is considering repurposing.
Previously, the AoT had expressed no intentions of altering the golf course, stating that the space wasn’t valuable enough for redevelopment. However, recent discussions have seen a shift in perspective, with AoT now considering the potential of the area to accommodate walkways that would connect the two runways of Don Mueang International Airport. This change in direction was announced during a meeting with the ad hoc committee on armed forces business transfers.
RTAF Director of Welfare, Air Vice Marshal Tanachai Arkatwattana, explained that the compensation amount of three billion baht was calculated based on a 30 year contract. The figure is based on an annual compensation of 90–100 million baht, which the AoT would be obligated to pay the RTAF.
Later, the Minister of Transport, Suriya Juangroongruangkit, met with Air Chief Marshal Phanpakdee Pattanakul to discuss the transfer of the golf course. Emphasising his support for the government’s Aviation Hub policy, Suriya stated that the civil aviation sector would greatly benefit from the use of this space.
He projected an increase in Don Mueang Airport’s flight capacity from 55 to 65 flights per hour as a potential outcome of this development.
In addition to this, the minister also provided an update on a ring road set to cut through a section of the RTAF’s Wing 41 in Chiang Mai province.
The current options being considered include enhancing the existing road with added security measures, utilising parts of the existing road, and creating an underpass through Wing 41’s space using the original road, reported Bangkok Post.
