Bangkok Airways stays focused on premium leisure growth and fleet renewal despite global uncertainty. In an interview with TravelMole, Bangkok Airways President Puttipong Prasarttong Osoth outlined the carrier’s strategy, fleet plans, outlook for passenger traffic and the support he hopes to see from the Thai government.
How is Bangkok Airways adjusting its strategy for the coming months?
Puttipong Prasarttong Osoth : The aviation sector continues to face a changing environment shaped by geopolitical developments, economic uncertainty and evolving travel patterns. Despite these challenges, Bangkok Airways remains confident about the long-term strength of travel demand in Thailand and across the region.
The airline is focusing on maintaining flexibility while pursuing disciplined growth. Capacity optimization, operational efficiency and customer experience remain priorities, supported by Bangkok Airways’ position as an integrated aviation services provider.
Premium leisure travel continues to perform strongly, especially to destinations where the carrier has an established presence, including Samui, Sukhothai and Trat. As a result, the airline’s strategy remains centered on quality growth, network optimization and maintaining its high service standards.
What are your plans for the fleet?
Puttipong Prasarttong Osoth : Fleet modernization remains a key component of the airline’s long-term strategy. Management signed a commitment for 10 ATR72-600 aircraft, with options for two more, in the third quarter of 2025. Deliveries are scheduled between late 2026 and 2028, while older aircraft will be evaluated for retirement.
The new turboprops will support replacement requirements and future expansion across Bangkok Airways’ regional network. The airline says the next-generation aircraft will provide improved fuel efficiency, lower emissions and greater passenger comfort.
Are you slowing down investments at Samui Airport?
Puttipong Prasarttong Osoth : Not at all. Samui Airport remains one of Bangkok Airways’ most important assets and a key gateway for Thai tourism.
The company says it continues to invest in infrastructure improvements, sustainability initiatives and enhancements to the passenger experience. At the same time, it aims to preserve the airport’s distinctive character and support the island’s sustainable development.
All investments are assessed with a long-term perspective to ensure benefits for passengers, local communities and the tourism sector.
What are your expectations for this year in terms of passenger numbers and market trends?
Puttipong Prasarttong Osoth : Despite global uncertainties, Bangkok Airways expects demand to remain resilient and passenger volumes to stay healthy throughout the year.
Thailand’s popularity and growing interest in experiential and premium leisure travel are supporting bookings. The airline is seeing a gradual shift in its passenger mix, with regional Asian markets accounting for an increasing share of demand, while traditional long-haul markets remain important.
Domestic travel also continues to perform strongly during holidays and long weekends. The airline expects a balanced mix of domestic, regional and long-haul traffic, with Asia remaining a major growth driver.
What support would you like to see from the Thai government?
Puttipong Prasarttong Osoth : Bangkok Airways welcomes the government’s efforts to promote Thailand and support tourism recovery.
Looking ahead, the airline would like to see continued investment in aviation infrastructure, policies that strengthen Thailand’s position as a regional hub and measures that support sustainable tourism growth.
The company also believes there is room to improve the competitiveness of Thai airlines through a review of industry costs. This could include reducing the excise tax on Jet A-1 fuel and reassessing airport charges and other operating expenses.
According to the airline, closer cooperation between government agencies, tourism authorities and private sector stakeholders will be essential to attract higher-value visitors, encourage year-round travel and improve connectivity throughout the country.
Thailand remains one of the world’s most attractive tourism destinations, and with the right support and collaboration, we believe the sector has significant opportunities for continued growth.
