Thailand’s airports are preparing for a bustling new year holiday season with over 18,000 flights expected to operate nationwide, marking a significant boost for the country’s aviation industry. This increase, as per the Transport Ministry, reflects the sector’s ongoing recovery and anticipated growth in the coming year.
During the holiday period from today through January 2, airports across the country will handle a total of 18,280 flights, averaging 2,211 flights daily. This represents a 14% increase compared to the same timeframe last year, according to Deputy Transport Minister Manaporn Charoensri. The data was compiled by the Aeronautical Radio of Thailand Ltd (AEROTHAI).
The rise in air traffic is largely driven by domestic demand as people travel home for the holidays and tourists explore various provinces to celebrate the new year. The aviation industry is poised for robust performance next year, with projections suggesting at least 1 million flights will serve airports nationwide, an increase from this year’s total of 981,270 flights.
Manaporn Charoensri highlighted plans for upgrading airport facilities and technology to manage the expanding traffic, a result of the steadily rebounding tourism sector.
“We are committed to improving passenger convenience and ensuring smooth travel experiences through the I-Smart approach.” I-Smart focuses on inclusivity, safety, security, sustainability, approachability, reasonable pricing, and timely technology.
Efforts are also underway to minimise flight delays and reduce overcrowding at check-in areas. AEROTHAI President Nopasit Chakpitak announced that the agency is intensifying High Intensity Runway Operations (HIROS) during the holidays to enhance runway capacity. This involves decreasing Runway Occupancy Time, enabling more aircraft to land and depart efficiently.
Additionally, preferred exit taxiways will be utilised to alleviate runway congestion. Nopasit Chakpitak explained that these measures could boost Suvarnabhumi Airport’s capacity to handle 94 flights per hour, up from the current 68, while Don Mueang Airport could see an increase to 57 to 60 flights per hour from 52, reported Bangkok Post.
Phuket International Airport is also gearing up for a surge in flight traffic during the Christmas and new year celebrations, ensuring readiness to accommodate the holiday rush.
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