aviation news

  • Thailand NewsCargo plane chaos shuts down Hong Kong International Airport

    Cargo plane chaos shuts down Hong Kong International Airport

    Hong Kong’s quest to reclaim its status as a premier international aviation hub hit turbulence this week when a cargo plane incident brought Hong Kong International Airport to a standstill. Cathay Pacific Airways’ gradual resumption of services to pre-pandemic levels has been overshadowed by the chaos caused by a runway shutdown. A runway closure following a cargo plane emergency forced…

  • Thailand NewsSky-high opportunities: Vietjet Thailand holds recruitment event

    Sky-high opportunities: Vietjet Thailand holds recruitment event

    Vietjet Thailand took off with its largest recruitment event in six years on June 15, transforming the Paragon Cineplex in Siam Paragon into a bustling hub of aviation career opportunities. This year’s Sky Career Festival, an annual extravaganza since 2018, saw the launch of Vietjet Thailand’s groundbreaking Major Cadet Pilot Training Programme. Over 10,000 eager attendees flocked to explore diverse…

  • Thailand NewsSCAT Airlines operates new routes from Kazakhstan to U-Tapao

    SCAT Airlines operates new routes from Kazakhstan to U-Tapao

    The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) announced new flight connections at U-Tapao–Rayong–Pattaya International Airport (UTP), courtesy of SCAT Airlines and AirAsia. This move underscores Thailand’s strategic push to enhance accessibility for international business travellers and tourists. SCAT Airlines is operating a charter service using Boeing 737 Max-9 with 213 seats from Almaty, Kazakhstan via flight number VSV5357 every seven to…

  • Thailand NewsThai AirAsia’s Fifth Freedom routes to Japan take off

    Thai AirAsia’s Fifth Freedom routes to Japan take off

    Thai AirAsia launched its much-anticipated Fifth Freedom routes, creating a seamless travel experience connecting Bangkok, Taiwan, and Japan. The airline’s inaugural flight from Bangkok’s Don Mueang Airport to Taipei, followed by a final leg to Okinawa, garnered an overwhelming passenger response. The Taipei to Okinawa route boasted a staggering 99% load factor, arriving at a warm reception and a lively…

  • Thailand NewsAirAsia unveils direct flights from Bali to Phuket and Malaysia

    AirAsia unveils direct flights from Bali to Phuket and Malaysia

    Indonesia AirAsia has launched two international routes from Denpasar, Bali, to Phuket in Thailand, and Kota Kinabalu in Malaysia. This strategic move aims to boost Indonesia’s tourism by enhancing air connectivity. Veranita Yosephine Sinaga, President Director of Indonesia AirAsia, stated that these new routes are a significant step in the airline’s commitment to expanding its air network and strengthening Indonesia’s…

  • Thailand NewsSingapore Airlines pays out after turbulence tragedy

    Singapore Airlines pays out after turbulence tragedy

    Singapore Airlines has offered compensation to passengers following a terrifying turbulence incident that left one dead and many injured. Singapore Airlines announced it will provide US$10,000 (approximately 360,000 baht) in compensation to passengers who sustained injuries during a severe turbulence incident on a flight from London to Singapore. The tragic episode, which occurred last month, left a 73 year old…

  • Thailand NewsJetstar Asia launches new route from Singapore to Krabi

    Jetstar Asia launches new route from Singapore to Krabi

    Jetstar Asia is soaring high with its latest addition to its flight network. Last Friday, the airline launched a new route from Singapore to the stunning resort destination of Krabi in southern Thailand, adding over 60,000 seats annually. The inaugural flight, 3K573, took off from Singapore Changi Airport at 7.32am local time (6.32am Thailand time) and landed in Krabi at…

  • Thailand NewsMuay Thai boxer shares near-death experience on Qatar flight

    Muay Thai boxer shares near-death experience on Qatar flight

    A Muay Thai boxer recounted his near-death experience when he and other passengers were stranded for three hours on a Qatar Airways flight from Greece to Qatar, even though a fire broke out at the back of the aircraft. The Muay Thai boxer, known as Thananchai Sit Song Phi Nong, visited the city of Patras in Greece to participate in…

  • Thailand NewsQueensland’s direct flights to Bangkok resume after four years

    Queensland’s direct flights to Bangkok resume after four years

    Jetstar is launching direct flights from Queensland‘s Brisbane Airport to Bangkok this December, a route last serviced by Thai Airways (THAI) before its suspension in March 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Brisbane Airport (BNE), backed by the Queensland Government, has been pivotal in restoring international connections post-pandemic. Reintroducing the Bangkok route is one of the final pieces in this…

  • Thailand NewsThai Pilots Association opposes eased restrictions for foreign pilots

    Thai Pilots Association opposes eased restrictions for foreign pilots

    The Thai Pilots Association vehemently opposed a controversial government proposal to ease restrictions on foreign pilots flying with Thai carriers temporarily. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin recently pinpointed the slow resumption of flights as a significant hurdle for Thailand’s tourism sector. Post-pandemic personnel shortages are a global issue, but the prime minister believes Thailand needs a quick fix. During a visit…

  • Thailand NewsThai Airways resumes daily Brussels-Bangkok route

    Thai Airways resumes daily Brussels-Bangkok route

    Starting December 1, Thai Airways (THAI) will resume its daily direct passenger flights between Brussels Airport and Bangkok. This eagerly awaited route, which was suspended during the Covid-19 pandemic, significantly enhances Brussels Airport’s intercontinental offerings. After a four-year hiatus, Brussels Airport is thrilled to welcome back THAI, a former member of its prestigious airline community. The airline has once again…

  • Thailand NewsPhuket Airport to invest 6 billion baht in new international terminal

    Phuket Airport to invest 6 billion baht in new international terminal

    Phuket Airport plans to invest 6 billion baht to construct a new terminal dedicated to international flights, aiming to boost its passenger handling capacity from 12.5 million annually to 18 million. The airport’s director, Monchai Tanod, highlighted the urgent need for expansion. Last month, the airport saw an influx of around 16,000 domestic passengers daily, hitting 90% of its pre-Covid-19…

  • Thailand NewsHeroic doctor leads rescue after Singapore Airlines emergency

    Heroic doctor leads rescue after Singapore Airlines emergency

    Thailand has been lauded for its rapid and efficient response to an emergency when a Singapore Airlines flight encountered severe turbulence over Myanmar on May 21. Heading the emergency operation after Flight SQ321 diverted to Suvarnabhumi Airport was Dr Wichanya Burirak, a dedicated physician and aviation enthusiast. Chiang Mai University, where Wichanya graduated from the Faculty of Medicine, expressed pride…

  • Thailand NewsAirAsia soars to new heights: Asia’s best low-cost carrier for 2024

    AirAsia soars to new heights: Asia’s best low-cost carrier for 2024

    AirAsia Group and its affiliates AirAsia X and Thai AirAsia X have been crowned Asia’s Top Low-Cost Carrier for 2024 by AirlineRatings.com at their prestigious Airline Excellence Awards. This accolade marks a significant milestone in AirAsia’s storied journey. Launched in 2001 by visionary founders Datuk Kamarudin Meranun and Tony Fernandes with just two aircraft, the airline has soared to unimaginable…

  • Thailand NewsThai Airways airbus to retrofit A320s with reclining seats

    Thai Airways airbus to retrofit A320s with reclining seats

    In a groundbreaking move for aviation luxury in the Asia-Pacific region, Airbus has inked a deal with Thai Airways International Public Company Limited (THAI) to retrofit its fleet of 20 A320ceo aircraft with premium reclining business class seats. This marks Airbus’ first-ever cabin retrofit for a single-aisle fleet in this part of the world. This initiative is part of THAI’s broader…

  • Thailand NewsSingapore Airlines overhauls turbulence protocols after fatal flight

    Singapore Airlines overhauls turbulence protocols after fatal flight

    Singapore Airlines has swiftly tightened its cabin service rules after a harrowing incident on a flight from London left one passenger dead and many others injured earlier this week. The airline announced today that it is adopting a more cautious approach to managing turbulence following the sudden altitude drop of Flight SQ321 on Tuesday, which necessitated an emergency landing in…

  • Thailand NewsSky-high savings: Webjet and AirAsia unveil mega Asia sale

    Sky-high savings: Webjet and AirAsia unveil mega Asia sale

    Webjet and AirAsia have joined forces again, promising Aussie travellers unbeatable fares to Asia’s hottest destinations. In a major boost for Aussie globetrotters, Webjet, Australia’s leading online travel agency, relaunched its partnership with AirAsia. This exciting collaboration promises easier access to affordable flights, thanks to AirAsia’s extensive network. The partnership aims to offer customers a broader range of choices and…

  • Thailand NewsThailand aims for 270 million passengers by 2037

    Thailand aims for 270 million passengers by 2037

    To solidify its position as the aviation powerhouse of the Asia Pacific, the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) unveiled a comprehensive three-stage strategy yesterday. This ambitious plan aims to skyrocket the nation’s air traveller capacity to an astounding 270 million passengers annually by 2037, propelling Thailand into the region’s top five countries for air logistics. The initiative, part of…

  • Thailand NewsSpiceJet launches daily flights from Delhi to Phuket

    SpiceJet launches daily flights from Delhi to Phuket

    Indian low-cost airline SpiceJet unveiled its latest venture: daily non-stop flights connecting Delhi to Phuket, commencing on May 31. Ajay Singh, SpiceJet’s Chairman and Managing Director, expressed his enthusiasm for the new route. “We are incredibly excited to launch our first-ever service to Phuket, a world-renowned destination. We are confident that our new daily non-stop flights will be a popular choice…

  • Thailand NewsIndonesia: Airline staff plummets from Airbus A320 (video)

    Indonesia: Airline staff plummets from Airbus A320 (video)

    A jaw-dropping video has emerged showing an airline staff member’s terrifying fall from an Airbus A320 after a step ladder was prematurely retracted. The incident, caught on camera and shared by Sanjay Lazar on Twitter, now known as X, quickly went viral, leaving viewers stunned and authorities scrambling for answers. The footage, reportedly taken in Indonesia and involving Transnusa Airlines,…

  • Thailand NewsCathay-Siam Piwat partnership: Shopping rewards to travel perks

    Cathay-Siam Piwat partnership: Shopping rewards to travel perks

    Overseas Cathay members are in for a treat as Cathay and Siam Piwat unveil an exciting enhancement to their partnership. The new scheme allows members to convert ONESIAM Coins to Asia Miles, offering unprecedented rewards both on the ground and in the air. Imagine strolling through the bustling malls of Bangkok and effortlessly converting your shopping rewards into travel perks.…

  • Thailand NewsThai Vietjet’s unbelievable offer on zero-fare flights

    Thai Vietjet’s unbelievable offer on zero-fare flights

    Thai Vietjet is making waves with an irresistible promotion, offering zero-fare tickets on all domestic and international flights from Thailand. These zero fares (excluding taxes and fees) are available for booking until Friday, May 17. The travel period spans from June 1 to February 28, 2025. This deal covers Thai Vietjet’s extensive domestic network from Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi) to popular destinations…

  • Thailand NewsThai airlines soar with record profits despite rising costs

    Thai airlines soar with record profits despite rising costs

    Thailand’s booming aviation sector has given Thai airlines Bangkok Airways and Thai AirAsia a profitable first quarter, despite the challenges posed by escalating costs. Bangkok Airways, known for catering to leisure travellers, reported a robust comeback with tourist arrivals reaching 87% of pre-pandemic levels in the first three months of 2024. A standout achievement was the launch of direct flights…

  • Thailand NewsThai Airways’ Boeing and Airbus aircraft sales

    Thai Airways’ Boeing and Airbus aircraft sales

    Thai Airways International (THAI) successfully sold its entire fleet of 18 retired aircraft, including six Boeing 777-200s, six Boeing 777-300s, and six Airbus A380s. This major move marks a significant step in the airline’s restructuring strategy. THAI CEO Chai Eamsiri confirmed that sales agreements for all 18 aircraft have been signed on May 12. The airline has already completed the…

  • Thailand NewsGreater Bay Airlines halts Hong Kong-Singapore flights

    Greater Bay Airlines halts Hong Kong-Singapore flights

    Hong Kong-based carrier Greater Bay Airlines (GBA) announced the suspension of its daily service between Hong Kong and Singapore, effective from June 1. The decision, attributed to commercial considerations, comes hot on the heels of its recent rivalry with budget giants Scoot and AirAsia, as well as premium players Singapore Airlines and Cathay Pacific. Launched with much fanfare on April…

  • Thailand NewsAir India Express cabin crew shortage due to sudden sick leave

    Air India Express cabin crew shortage due to sudden sick leave

    To tackle the turbulence caused by an unexpected sick call from a portion of its cabin crew, Air India Express has launched proactive initiatives, ensuring minimal disruption for affected passengers. Last night’s operational hiccup led the airline to swiftly rearrange flight schedules and explore diverse solutions, all aimed at easing the inconvenience experienced by its travellers. In a statement today,…

  • Thailand NewsCebu Pacific launches direct flights to Don Mueang Airport

    Cebu Pacific launches direct flights to Don Mueang Airport

    Cebu Pacific will soar between Manila’s Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 and Don Mueang International Airport (DMK) three times a week, whisking eager travellers away on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays, starting July 16. This latest addition boosts Cebu Pacific’s Manila-Bangkok flights to a whopping 17 times weekly, making it easier than ever to experience the magic of Thailand.…

  • Thailand NewsThai Airways launches game-changing mobile app upgrade

    Thai Airways launches game-changing mobile app upgrade

    Thai Airways International Public Company Limited unleashed a revamped version of its mobile application, promising a range of features across various platforms. With this latest iteration, passengers are in for a treat as they gain unprecedented control over their travel arrangements. Designed with Royal Orchid Plus (ROP) members in mind, the new application boasts a suite of functions to cater…

  • Thailand NewsScoot unveils next-gen jet Embraer in Krabi and Hat Yai flights

    Scoot unveils next-gen jet Embraer in Krabi and Hat Yai flights

    Scoot, the budget airline subsidiary of Singapore Airlines (SIA), has soared into a new era of aviation with the inauguration of its first Embraer E190-E2 aircraft. The momentous occasion unfolded amidst much fanfare at Singapore Changi Airport, with esteemed guests including Singapore’s Minister for Transport and Second Minister for Finance, Chee Hong Tat, alongside aviation partners and media from across…

  • Thailand NewsAirline engine mishap leaves Thai passengers gasping for air (video)

    Airline engine mishap leaves Thai passengers gasping for air (video)

    Thai passengers took to social media to complain about an airline that left them struggling to breathe on a plane for over an hour due to an engine failure. The incident reportedly occurred on a Nok Air flight from Bangkok to the southern province of Songkhla. A Thai woman shared her experience on a flight from Bangkok’s Don Mueang International Airport…