Thai Aviation Industry Sees Strong Growth and Prepares for Future Expansion

PHOTO: Prachachat

National —

On January 27th, 2025, Mr. Suttipong Kongpool, the Director of the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT), reported 2024’s performance results, highlighting 140 million passengers, a 15.12% increase from the previous year, with recovery reaching 85.14% of pre-pandemic levels. 

Flight volumes hit 880,000, up 11.90%, while air cargo exceeded pre-COVID levels by 101.63%, reflecting a 22.4% growth from 2023.

Thailand now ranks as the 19th largest aviation market globally, with IATA predicting it could rise to 9th by 2033. To meet growing demand, CAAT emphasized enhancing service capacity, maintaining international safety standards, and expediting critical projects, according to Suttipong.

In 2024, CAAT issued four new public airport certifications (Buriram, Hat Yai, Phuket, and Surat Thani), granted three new civil aviation licenses, and renewed five. Aircraft registrations rose to 656, up 4.46% from 2023. 

Special flights during New Year 2025 added over 70,000 seats, lowering ticket prices and increasing accessibility. Similar measures are planned for Songkran 2025.

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Kittisak Phalaharn
Kittisak has a passion for outgoings no matter how tough it will be, he will travel with an adventurous style. As for his interests in fantasy, detective genres in novels and sports science books are parts of his soul. He works for Pattaya News as the latest writer.