IATA has called on Thailand to strengthen its aviation foundations as passenger numbers are forecast to grow nearly 4 percent annually until 2043.
The country’s air travel demand has already recovered to 88 percent of pre-pandemic levels, with further growth expected from 2025.
IATA’s Regional Vice President for North Asia and Asia-Pacific, Dr Xie Xingquan, highlighted Thailand’s potential as a major aviation market.
“Thailand’s aviation potential is bright. Already demand has reached 88% of 2019 levels and we can expect the start of real growth from 2025. With world-class tourism assets and a growing regional business sector, Thailand is well positioned to become a top 15 global market for aviation in the next two decades,” Xie said.
The aviation body warned against introducing new tourism taxes, noting that 84 percent of tourists arrived by air before the pandemic.
Xie identified three key areas requiring attention: infrastructure, digitalization and sustainability.
He emphasized the importance of upgrading Suvarnabhumi Airport to handle future growth.
“A revised masterplan for Thailand’s airport capacity is critical to delivering the economic benefits of aviation. This effort can be maximized with customer input. Consultation with airlines will ensure alignment with market developments for the timely delivery of functional and cost-effective infrastructure,” Xie said.
The country has begun implementing automated border control gates and other technological improvements.
IATA also addressed Thailand’s sustainability efforts, particularly regarding Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) production.
“As aviation decarbonizes, there is a golden opportunity for Thailand to reap the economic benefits of establishing a successful Sustainable Aviation Fuel production. While the government explores policies to support SAF production, it needs to keep in mind that airlines can only purchase SAF if it is available on the market,” Xie said.
