Bangkok: The Aeronautical Information Service (AIS) emphasizes investment in safety following the energy crisis and reduced flights. Executives at Aeronautical Radio of Thailand confirmed that the energy crisis has affected the number of flights, but not significantly. They also announced plans to invest in safety and implement hybrid technologies.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Surachai Nuphrom, Acting President and CEO of Aeronautical Radio of Thailand Co., Ltd. (AeroThai), acknowledged that the energy crisis has impacted the number of flights, but the decrease is not significant. This is because AeroThai has extended debt repayment periods for airlines to give them time to secure funding and maintain liquidity. Furthermore, AeroThai has reduced service fees for domestic airports by 30%, allowing airlines to continue operating and using its services. The only affected flight segment is Tel Aviv, Israel, from Suvarnabhumi Airport, which has to take a detour due to airspace closures in some countries. However, a positive aspect is that foreign airlines flying to Europe are now using AeroThai's routes, specifically those via Afghanistan, allowing for smooth passage.
Mr. Surachai also stated that future investments will focus on security, providing air traffic control services using a hybrid Digital Tower system for high-volume airports such as Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang. They will also design airspace for airports with complex traffic, categorized into three groups: Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, and U-Tapao; Phuket, Krabi, and Andaman (Phang Nga); and Chiang Mai, Lampang, and Lanna (Lamphun). Furthermore, they will develop an aircraft tracking system from departure to landing. He added that increased security at Thai airports will encourage more foreign airlines to use them.
On the occasion of the 78th anniversary of the establishment of the Aeronautical Radio of Thailand Co., Ltd. (AeroThai), amidst the global energy crisis, although AeroThai is not a direct fuel user, it manages flight paths and controls air traffic. If managed well, this can significantly reduce the fuel consumption of airlines.