The government is betting on regional airports to drive Thailand's next wave of tourism and investment growth, with upgrades to facilities, flight routes and technology aimed at transforming them into economic gateways.Ministry of Transport officials on Friday outlined progress on the Airport for Regional Development strategy, which includes expanding international services, improving aviation safety and attracting new commercial opportunities as part of Thailand's goal of becoming a global aviation hub by 2029.
Deputy Transport Minister Phattrapong Phattraprasit reviewed developments during his first 90 days overseeing the Department of Airports, Aeronautical Radio of Thailand (Aerothai), Civil Aviation Training Center (CATC) and Suvarnabhumi Airport Hotel.
The initiatives cover infrastructure, safety, technology, personnel, revenue generation and management, with the DOA implementing its Airport for Regional Development strategy by strengthening airports as economic gateways.
Udon Thani Airport has opened customs, immigration and quarantine facilities for international flights, launched the Udon Thani-Suvarnabhumi-Tokyo (Narita) service and increased domestic flights by 50%.
Hua Hin Airport is being upgraded to international status, with the Hua Hin-Kuala Lumpur route restored and services to Singapore, Taipei and Shanghai under preparation.
