The Ministry of Transport is advancing studies on seaplanes—aircraft that take off and land on water—in Satun province to connect Lipe Island and Tarutao, supporting Thailand’s ambition to become an Aviation Hub. AEROTHAI confirms readiness to manage air traffic, expecting to pilot services in Phuket and Krabi by late 2026.
Mr. Phattharapong Phattharaphasit, Deputy Minister of Transport and chair of the Strategic Integration Committee to promote seaplane use, met with relevant agencies in Satun province to drive feasibility studies on seaplane operations in Satun and southern Thailand. The studies also cover integration of water airports and water landing points, considering local context and potential alongside safety, legal issues, environmental impact, and community benefits.
Satun province is recognized for its strong marine tourism potential, with key attractions scattered along its coast and islands such as Lipe Island, Tarutao National Park, the Adang-Rawi Archipelago, Pak Bara, Phan Yod Stone Castle, and Satun Geopark. These areas can be efficiently connected with Hat Yai and Trang airports.
The Deputy Minister of Transport stated he has urged relevant agencies to expedite studies and prepare personnel, including setting training standards for pilots and ground staff, and exploring establishment of seaplane takeoff and landing areas and docking points. This effort aligns with the ministry’s policy to make seaplanes an alternative air transport mode, enhancing travel connections between cities, tourist sites, coastlines, and islands.
This policy focuses on improving efficiency and diversity in the transport system, supporting trade, investment, and tourism to boost economic value. It aims to elevate Thailand’s competitiveness and transform the country into a regional World Class Aviation Hub, raising the aviation industry to global standards.
Mr. Surachai Nuprom, Acting Director-General of Aeronautical Radio of Thailand Ltd. (AEROTHAI), explained that since 2023, AEROTHAI has been studying and preparing to manage air traffic for seaplane services. Together with the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT), they held the “First Seaplane Operations Toward Thailand’s Aviation Hub” workshop in early 2024 to integrate cooperation across sectors.
Currently, AEROTHAI is ready to manage airspace, flight routes, communication systems, navigation aids, and aircraft tracking systematically to safely integrate seaplane operations with overall aviation across Krabi, Phuket, Satun, Trang, Pattani, and other areas. Initial operations are in the process of securing private permits for water takeoff and landing sites, aiming to launch seaplane services first in Krabi and Phuket by late 2026, before expanding to Satun and other provinces as a model.
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