BANGKOK — Thailand’s Transport Ministry has instructed Thai Airways International to increase flights to secondary airports and consider launching new domestic and international routes as part of a broader strategy to spread tourism revenue beyond the country’s major destinations. The move is aimed at strengthening regional economies and improving air connectivity across the kingdom. (Bangkok Post)
The proposal was discussed during a meeting involving the Department of Airports, Thai Airways, aviation authorities, and tourism officials. Authorities said better air links are essential for directing more visitors to emerging destinations and reducing dependence on traditional tourism hubs such as Bangkok, Phuket, and Chiang Mai. (Bangkok Post)
Focus on Secondary Cities
According to Deputy Government Spokeswoman Lalida Periswiwatana, the government wants Thai Airways to increase services to regional destinations including Krabi, Ubon Ratchathani, and Nakhon Si Thammarat. Officials are also encouraging the airline to evaluate additional routes connecting travelers directly to provincial cities. (Bangkok Post)
The initiative forms part of a wider effort to distribute tourism income more evenly across Thailand and stimulate local businesses in provinces that receive fewer international visitors than the country’s major tourism centers. (nationthailand)
New International Opportunities
The ministry has also asked Thai Airways to examine direct international services to high-potential tourism provinces. Proposed destinations include Krabi, Surat Thani, and Hua Hin, with target markets including Malaysia, Singapore, and Hong Kong. Officials believe direct international connections could significantly increase visitor numbers while easing congestion at Bangkok’s airports. (nationthailand)
Krabi Positioned as Aviation Hub
A central element of the plan is the development of Krabi Airport as a major aviation gateway for southern Thailand. The government sees Krabi as well-positioned to attract direct international flights and serve as a regional hub connecting travelers to nearby beach destinations and islands. (nationthailand)
Authorities say stronger aviation infrastructure will help support long-term tourism growth while encouraging visitors to explore lesser-known destinations across the country. (nationthailand)
Supporting Regional Development
The Transport Ministry has identified several provinces for accelerated airport development, including Lampang, Mae Hong Son, Nan, Phrae, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Hua Hin, and Roi Et. These airports are expected to play a larger role in supporting tourism, business travel, and regional economic development. (nationthailand)
Officials said the aviation expansion plan aligns with Thailand’s broader ambition to strengthen its position as a regional travel hub while ensuring economic benefits reach communities outside the country’s primary tourist centers. (nationthailand)
Sources: Bangkok Post, The Nation Thailand, Transport Ministry statements.
Editor: Sudhir Choudhary
Tags: Thai Airways, Thailand, Aviation, Tourism, Krabi Airport, Regional Airports, Transport Ministry, Bangkok, Thailand News
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