The government is developing Thailand into an Aviation Hub by introducing seaplanes to seamlessly connect the Andaman region. Pattharaphong, Deputy Minister of Transport, has set a deadline to start pilot flights between Krabi and Phuket within this year to attract high-quality tourists.
On 9 June 2026, Ms. Lalida Pertvivattana, Deputy Spokesperson of the Prime Minister’s Office, revealed that under the leadership of Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul, the government is advancing the country's transportation and tourism capabilities. This effort aims to position Thailand as a regional Aviation Hub alongside developing quality tourist destinations and generating increased economic value from tourism across various parts of the country.
The Deputy Spokesperson added that Pattharaphong Pataraprasit, Deputy Minister of Transport, visited Krabi International Airport to monitor operations and held discussions with government agencies and private sectors regarding plans to launch seaplane services. The initiative aims to enhance connectivity to key Andaman tourist destinations and provide a new, convenient, and faster travel option that meets the needs of quality tourists worldwide.
Pattharaphong stated that the Ministry of Transport aims to develop Krabi International Airport as an "Airport for Regional Development," seamlessly linking air travel with sea and island tourist destinations. This will support the anticipated growth of the tourism industry. Seaplanes will serve as additional transportation infrastructure to boost Thailand's competitiveness in tourism.
The Deputy Spokesperson said that to concretize this project, the Ministry of Transport is establishing the “Strategic Integration Committee for Seaplane Operations” to coordinate efforts among government agencies, experts, and the private sector. The committee will define operational guidelines under aviation safety standards. Pattharaphong has been appointed by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport Pipat Ratchakitprakarn as the committee’s chairman.
The government views seaplanes not only as a means to facilitate travel for high-value and high-spending tourists but also as a way to broadly stimulate related industries. These include aviation, tourism, hotels, restaurants, service businesses, emergency medical services, and maritime security missions, thereby generating continuous income and employment in local areas.
Pattharaphong revealed that Krabi province will be the country's first pilot area for seaplane services, with trial flights on the Krabi–Phuket route expected to begin within 2026. This marks a significant step in developing new forms of air transportation in Thailand and will serve as a model for connecting marine tourist destinations in other regions in the future.
“The government aims to create an integrated transportation system linking travel, tourism, and the economy efficiently. Promoting seaplanes in the Andaman region will enhance tourist experiences, add economic value locally, and strengthen Thailand’s position as a global destination. This aligns with government policies to elevate the country as a regional center for travel, tourism, and investment,” Pattharaphong said.