Thailand unveils 106 million USD investment in aviation technology
Thailand has announced a plan to strengthen its aviation capabilities by investing 3.6 billion THB (over 106 million USD) in advanced technology, aiming to position the country as a regional aviation hub by 2037.
Thailand invests 3.8bn THB in aviation tech to become regional hub. (Photo: www.nationthailand.com)
Bangkok (VNA)🍰 - Thailand has announced a plan to strengthen its aviation capabilities by investing 3.6 billion THB (over 106 million USD) in advanced technology, aiming to position the country as a regional aviation hub by 2037.
Aeronautical Radio of Thailand (AEROTHAI) said the move to modernise air traffic control across key airports will increase annual flight capacity from the current 1.2 million to 2 million.
Nopasit Chakpitak, President of AEROTHAI, said aviation capabilities would be enhanced at three new international gateways – U-Tapao Airport and the Eastern Aviation City, Andaman International Airport (Phang Nga), and Lanna Airport (Lamphun), all slated for completion between 2029 and 2030.
AEROTHAI's 3.6 billion THB will be allocated evenly across the three airport sites, with each receiving around 1.2 billion THB to construct air traffic control for dual runways and over 100,000 flights annually.
The funding will be secured through loans, with ongoing discussions with one or two potential lenders. The loans will not be government-backed, thereby avoiding potential public debt burdens.
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Digital towers will be rolled out in two phases, with popular airports such as Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, Phuket, Chiang Mai, Hat Yai, and Samui adopting the system in 2026.
Quieter airports like Narathiwat and Betong will get remote tower configurations in 2027, reducing the need for on-site controllers.
The shift to cutting-edge technology aims to boost safety and efficiency but also bolster Thailand's capacity to handle the projected surge in air traffic, solidifying its position as a regional aviation hub./.
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