Thailand’s Sky High Aspirations: Five New Airlines Emerge With a burgeoning aviation market, Thailand sees the dawn of five new airlines, pooling in an impressive investment of 3.85 billion baht (S$145 million). These new players target a slice of Thailand’s projected 320 billion baht aviation pie by 2024.
Clearance from the Skies
Regulatory Hurdles Before they commence their commercial flights, the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) has granted these airlines the Air Operating Licence (AOL). Still, they await the pivotal Air Operator Certificate (AOC).
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Really Cool Airlines
A Fresh Take on Asian Routes Leading the pack, Really Cool Airlines’ CEO, Patee Sarasin, divulges an ambitious plan. Aiming to secure the AOC by January 2024, they anticipate a Q2 takeoff. Their initial sights are set on pivotal Asian destinations, from Japan to Shanghai. However, come March to May 2024, the airline will test waters with chartered flights, followed by regular flights and an eventual pivot to Europe. Interestingly, a distinctive edge they aim to provide is door-to-door luggage delivery for passengers. The airline is also diversifying with ventures into taxis, medical services, and cargo.
P80 Air
Banking on China’s Secondary Cities As an offshoot of maritime logistics giant Thoresen Thai Agencies Pcl of Mahagitsiri Group, P80 Air is set to commence commercial operations in late 2024. Their strategy hinges on tapping into lesser-known Chinese cities, leveraging their fleet of Boeing B737-800 NG aircraft.
Pattaya Airways
A Balanced Domestic and ASEAN Reach Thossaporn Usanee of Pattaya Group unveils a Q4 2024 launch plan for Pattaya Airways, emphasizing dual attention on local and ASEAN routes. The airline is poised to amplify its cargo delivery services, anticipating a spike in e-commerce-driven demands.
Siam Seaplane
Luxury Commutes to Coastal Gems Luxury travelers have a treat awaiting with Siam Seaplane. This airline aspires to integrate amphibian Cessna Caravan 208 aircraft, ensuring quick, opulent transits to Thailand’s coastal treasures like Ko Lipe in Satun province.
Landarch Airlines
Bridging Southern Provinces Launching in April 2024, Landarch Airlines intends to connect major cities in Thailand’s south. With a base in Hat Yai, Songkhla province, they’ll begin with five 12-seater Cessna C208 B aircraft, anticipating a threefold fleet expansion in subsequent years.
