The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) is preparing to propose to the Civil Aviation Board (CAB) the cancellation of aircraft age restrictions for registration and commercial operations. Instead, a new approach will be adopted in accordance with international standards, using the criterion of “Airworthiness” as the main measure rather than setting specific age limits. This aims to increase flexibility for airlines and reduce obstacles in aircraft procurement.
Air Chief Marshal Manatt Chuanaprayoon, CAAT Director, revealed that currently, aircraft manufacturers worldwide are unable to meet demand, leading many airlines to lease aircraft with older operational ages that are still airworthy. Removing age restrictions will enable operators to expand their fleets more easily, while still complying with all international safety standards.
Previously, Thailand set the maximum aircraft age at 5 years for helicopters, 16 years for passenger aircraft, and 22 years for cargo aircraft. This approach differs from most countries that evaluate aircraft based on their condition and maintenance rather than age. Air Chief Marshal Manatt emphasized that “aircraft safety does not depend on age but on continuous inspection and maintenance,” and affirmed that CAAT has sufficient expertise and personnel to conduct inspections according to the required standards.
Additionally, CAAT plans to propose an adjustment to the Passenger Service Charge (PSC) for international outbound passengers to reflect the investment costs in new airport technologies such as CUTE, CUSS, and CUBD systems. Thung Luang Airport operated by Airports of Thailand Public Company Limited (AOT) has requested a 5 baht increase from 730 to 735 baht per passenger, while Trang Airport under the Department of Airports requests an increase from 400 to 425 baht.
Both proposed measures aim to elevate Thailand’s aviation industry standards in line with global market changes, particularly in fleet management and airport service quality. This will enhance the competitiveness of Thai airlines in the long term and reassure passengers regarding the safety and efficiency of air travel in the country.