At the ACI APAC & MID RACE 2026 assembly in Bangkok, Airports of Thailand Public Company Limited (SET: AOT) President Ms. Paweena Jariyathitipong reaffirmed the company’s strategic vision to transform the nation’s airports into a world-class aviation hub. By prioritizing international safety standards, sustainability, and modern service excellence, AOT aims to solidify Thailand’s position as a premier global destination and a vital economic gateway connecting the region.
In an interview after the first session, Ms. Paweena outlined a comprehensive strategic vision for the future of Thai aviation. Speaking at a regional gathering of approximately 450 to 500 participants from the Asia-Pacific, Australia, and Middle East regions, she highlighted the importance of collaboration in driving national stability, service excellence, and long-term sustainability.
She addressed the ongoing impacts of the Middle East conflict on regional aviation. While flight recovery in the Middle East is nearly back to normal, passenger volume has only reached about 60%, prompting a collective effort among airports to establish new global connectivity. Ms. Paweena noted that some airports, like Singapore’s Changi, successfully turned the crisis into an opportunity by rerouting flights, demonstrating the importance of robust infrastructure.
A significant operational hurdle discussed was the security screening structure. AOT has proposed that the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) review its standards to better integrate advanced technology with personnel, rather than maintaining fixed staffing levels that do not decrease when technology is added.
Operational Outlook and Financial Performance:
- Passenger Trends: Accumulated passenger numbers for the first two quarters of AOT’s fiscal year are 2% higher than the previous year, though summer figures may see a slight dip. Overall, annual passenger volume is expected to remain stable compared to last year.
- Fuel and Airfares: High oil prices and jet fuel shortages (notably affecting exports to Vietnam and the Philippines) have impacted flight frequencies and increased airfares, which in turn affects passenger demand.
- Service Fees: Starting June 20, 2026, international departure fees will adjust to 1,120 baht. This change applies to tickets purchased for travel after this date; those who bought tickets earlier at the old rate will not be charged extra.
- Support for Airlines: AOT is managing airline support through payment deferrals rather than significant fee reductions, noting that airport charges account for only about 0.2% of total ticket costs for the company.
The Roadmap to a “Green Airport” and Net Zero
A central pillar of AOT’s strategy is Sustainability and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance). The company is committed to transforming its facilities into “Green Airports” through several initiatives:
- Carbon Accreditation: All six AOT airports are currently at Level 3 of the Airport Carbon Accreditation program. The goal is to reach Level 3 Plus by collaborating with stakeholders to optimize runway usage and reduce jet fuel consumption.
- Technological Integration: Plans include transitioning airport ground vehicles and taxis to Electric Vehicles (EV) to further reduce carbon emissions.
- Long-term Goal: AOT has joined global peers in aiming for Net Zero by 2050, a challenging target that will require carbon offsetting measures such as reforestation alongside energy reduction.
