Bangkok, Thailand – Thailand plans to cut domestic air traffic control fees by 30% and extend payment terms by 30 days, while a new CEO appointment for Radio Aviation of Thailand remains blocked by complaints.
More Speed in Thai Airspace
Deputy Transport Minister Phattharaphong Phattharaprasit ordered improvements to airspace management to make Thailand a premier aviation hub. He also expects ticket prices to fall as a result of lower costs for airlines operating in the country.
Fees Down, Payment Later
Air traffic control fees for domestic flights will be reduced by 30%. Airlines must pay 50% of the fees on time, with the remaining balance extended by 30 days, applicable for May-June. The measure aims to strengthen airline liquidity amid energy fluctuations and international conflicts.
New Routes for More Capacity
The organization has redesigned airspace and improved routes to increase capacity and efficiency. Two projects – NAN-SAGAG and Direct Route – are to be completed within this year. NAN-SAGAG is a cooperation between Thailand, Laos, and China, expected to start this year. A direct flight route pilot project will shorten distances and reduce fuel consumption.
Less Fuel, Fewer Detours
The continuous climb system will be expanded to allow aircraft to climb without interruption. Air traffic tools will help planes land directly instead of flying holding patterns. This will shorten flight times, reduce fuel consumption, and give airlines more predictability. The busiest airports are Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, and Phuket.
Flight Numbers Under Pressure
Current average flights in Thailand are about 2,200 to 2,300 per day, compared to normal 2,400. Originally expected growth of 6–7% for 2026, now due to the Middle East war, only 1–2% growth is expected, worst case a decline of 0.1–0.01%.
CEO Post at Radio Aviation of Thailand Still Blocked
The selection process for the new CEO is being reviewed due to five to six complaints about the procedure and the qualifications of the chosen candidate. The candidate is Mekin Phetplai, a former senior manager at Voice TV and former CEO of Airports of Thailand (AOT). The organization says operations continue normally with five deputy directors.
Review Before Signing
The complaints were submitted via the company’s complaint center during the government change or early last year. Therefore, details must be rechecked before contract signing. If complaints are valid, the entire selection process could be annulled and restarted.