Thailand Invests in Aviation Sector

Thailand Invests in Aviation Sector

The Thai government has unveiled a new strategy to make Thailand the premier tourism and business destination in the ASEAN region, reported www.worldfolio.com. The new strategy, “Thailand 4.0”, will be driven by innovation across several parts of the tourism sector.

High-spending visitors and medical tourism play a key role in the new strategy. The government also aims to grow the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences & Exhibitions) sector, promote sustainable tourism as well as supporting new tourism start-ups.

Establishing Thailand as a key aviation hub within the ASEAN region is also an important goal. “This year is Amazing Thailand Tourism Year 2018, and the goal is to bring in more quality tourists and maintain the country’s traditional tourism markets,” says Usanee Sangsingkeo, acting president of the national carrier, Thai Airways. “It is also intended to create higher economic value and distribute tourism income to the regional areas of the country,” she continued.

Expanding the number of overseas tourists travelling to Thailand will have a hugely positive impact on the country’s aviation sector. The U-Tapao Airport and Eastern Airport City Development project are key components of the strategy. Phase one of the project will focus on building a new terminal to establish a third international airport.  The new airport, located 140km south of Bangkok, will help to ease pressure on the existing two airports in the capital – Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang.

“The U-Tapao International Airport Development Project is one of several important development projects in the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC). The project will offer attractive business opportunities for aviation partner companies and suppliers,” says Sangsingkeo. “The ambitious plan for a new rail system to link Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang and U-Tapao airports will improve flexibility and logistical speed for MRO facilities.”

According to Sangsingkeo, Thai Airways also plays an important role in supporting the governments “Thailand 4.0” strategy and attracting more visitors to the country. Thailand serves as a prime gateway to the heart of Asia, and is home to the world’s largest growing economic market.

“Bangkok remains the most visited destination in Asia-Pacific,” she says. “Inbound tourism will continue to expand due to various factors, including the country’s ‘tourism friendly’ environment and the proactive marketing plans of government agencies.”

Thai Airways works closely with a range of travel-stakeholders in Thailand, including the Tourism Authority of Thailand, Nok Air, Bangkok Airways, Thai Smile and Thai Air Asia, to investigate ways of introducing more flights into the region to cater for the demand.