Phuket set to ‘take off’ with new seaplane plans
In a bid to transform Phuket’s tourism offerings, the CEO of Siam Seaplane Co Ltd, Worakan Siripidech, attended a high-stakes meeting at Phuket Provincial Hall on Wednesday, November 6 to explore the potential of launching seaplane services on the island.
Bringing in a mix of excitement and scepticism, officials discussed the concept of creating temporary water-based zones for take-offs and landings—a game-changer for Phuket’s travel appeal.
The meeting, which included Phuket Vice Governor Samawit Suphanphai and representatives from local government bodies such as Wichit Municipality, the Phuket Flight Control Centre, and the Mueang Phuket District Office, aimed to assess the viability of this bold plan. Other stakeholders present included representatives from Phuket International Airport, fisheries, tourism, and environmental departments, highlighting the wide-ranging impact of such an initiative.
The discussion builds on a foundational workshop hosted by the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) in May, titled First Seaplane Operations Toward Thailand’s Aviation. The workshop focused on familiarising key stakeholders with the regulatory frameworks and operational processes needed for legal seaplane services in Thailand.
“Phuket’s tourism could soar to new heights with this service.”
Yet, there were cautionary notes: officials voiced concerns about the potential environmental impact and possible disruption to local fishing communities.
With these concerns in mind, Vice Governor Samawit has requested a detailed project proposal from Siam Seaplane to allow a comprehensive review by all relevant agencies.
“It’s essential that we address all environmental and community factors.”
Siam Seaplane, already known for its scenic flights over Ayutthaya and services connecting Bangkok to popular destinations like Hua Hin and Khao Yai National Park, hopes to add Phuket to its roster. The company’s plans could bring an exhilarating new dimension to Thailand’s tourism industry—but not without careful consideration of the island’s delicate ecosystem and local way of life, reported Phuket News.
