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Drunken Adopted Son Kills Elderly Parents with Axe Before Taking Own Life in Nan Province Picture courtesy of Amarin. A 41-year-old man brutally killed his elderly adoptive parents before hanging himself, in a horrifying incident that has shocked the local community in Nan province. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1358941-drunken-adopted-son-kills-elderly-parents-with-axe-before-taking-own-life-in-nan-province/

Picture courtesy of Amarin. A 41-year-old man brutally killed his elderly adoptive parents before hanging himself, in a horrifying incident that has shocked the local community in Nan province. The incident unfolded at a house in Ban Pa Tong Don Sai Thong, Moo 8, Sila Phet subdistrict, Pua district. Mr Thamchinda “Pong” Nakai, aged 41, allegedly used an axe to strike his 80-year-old adoptive father, Mr Inphai Nakai, fatally as he slept. He then turned the weapon on his adoptive mother, Mrs Phai Nakai, also 80, who was preparing chilli paste in the kitchen, killing her as well. Following the double murder, Mr Pong hanged himself in his bedroom. A chilling message he had scrawled on the wall, cursing others, was discovered nearby. Neighbours raised the alarm after a local frog seller found the house unusually quiet when delivering an order. Concerned, neighbours forced entry and found Mr Inphai dead on his bed with severe head injuries. In the kitchen, Mrs Phai was found lifeless, beside a mortar and pestle, with similar wounds to the head. Upon further inspection, Mr Pong’s body was discovered in his bedroom, hanging by a piece of cloth. Relatives told reporters that both Mr Inphai and Mrs Phai had their own children from previous marriages before they met. Mr Pong was taken in and raised as their own after being abandoned at birth in a hospital. The couple treated him as their biological son, while their other children moved away to start their own families. According to relatives, Mr Pong was an alcoholic who frequently argued with Mr Inphai. He had mortgaged the family home and land, and it is believed mounting financial pressure and the prospect of losing the property may have driven him to commit the murders. It was also revealed that Mr Pong had written the ominous message on the wall as early as 16 April but had covered it with a cloth, hiding it from view. During the recent Songkran festival, he had asked relatives to take a family photo, stating cryptically that it would be needed later, a request that, at the time, raised no suspicions. Mr Saenoh Kongkhun, the village assistant headman and a neighbour, said he had noticed nothing unusual on the morning of the incident. He had seen Mrs Phai picking chillies in the garden as usual, and no disturbances were heard from the house. Police are continuing their investigation. Adapted by Asean Now from Amarin 2025-04-27.

UPDATE Ferrari Owner Reaches Compensation Agreement Over Fireball Crash in Thawi Watthana Picture courtesy of Inside Thailand. At 14:00 on 26 April, at Thammasala Police Station in Thawi Watthana district, Mr Kamol Silathong, father of the driver and owner of the Ferrari involved in a fiery collision, met with the parties affected to negotiate compensation. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1358546-supercar-destroyed-in-fiery-three-vehicle-collision-in-bangkok/page/2/#findComment-19761180

UPDATE Ferrari Owner Reaches Compensation Agreement Over Fireball Crash in Thawi Watthana Picture courtesy of Inside Thailand. At 14:00 on 26 April, at Thammasala Police Station in Thawi Watthana district, Mr Kamol Silathong, father of the driver and owner of the Ferrari involved in a fiery collision, met with the parties affected to negotiate compensation. The incident occurred in the early hours of 23 April at around 02:20 on Borommaratchachonnani Road, Salathammasop subdistrict, when Mr Kamol’s Ferrari collided with a Mercedes-Benz, resulting in both vehicles catching fire. A pickup truck was also damaged in the crash. Mr Kamol revealed that an agreement had been reached with both parties. As compensation, he agreed to provide the owner of the destroyed Mercedes-Benz with a new model, a Mercedes-Benz C200 AMG, which is an upgrade from the vehicle lost in the fire. Meanwhile, the owner of the damaged pickup truck, Mr Thongpitak Saklaew, aged 51, received a monetary settlement of 55,000 baht. Both parties expressed satisfaction with the arrangements. Investigators at Thammasala Police Station stated that the legal case remains ongoing. Authorities are awaiting forensic results before summoning the drivers of all three vehicles to face potential charges. Mr Thongpitak, the pickup truck owner, said he had been trapped in his vehicle after the crash but was rescued by the drivers of both the Ferrari and the Mercedes-Benz, for which he expressed his gratitude. Relatives of the Mercedes-Benz owner attended the meeting today on their behalf. However, they declined to comment on their satisfaction with the settlement. Adapted by Asean Now from Inside Thailand 2025-04-27.

Three Dead and Four Injured as Lorry Ploughs Into Fruit Stall in Prachinburi Picture courtesy of Matichon. A devastating crash occurred on the afternoon of 26 April, when a lorry, laden with tapioca flour, crashed into a roadside fruit stall in Prachinburi province, killing three people and injuring four others. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1358940-three-dead-and-four-injured-as-lorry-ploughs-into-fruit-stall-in-prachinburi/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. A devastating crash occurred on the afternoon of 26 April, when a lorry, laden with tapioca flour, crashed into a roadside fruit stall in Prachinburi province, killing three people and injuring four others. According to Ms Malinee, Director of the Provincial Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Office in Prachinburi, the incident was reported at around 13:00. The lorry, bearing registration number from Nakhon Ratchasima, was travelling from Wang Nam Khiao district towards Kabin Buri district along Highway 304. Upon reaching Ban Thung Faek, Village 3, in Thung Pho subdistrict, Na Di district, the driver allegedly fell asleep at the wheel. The lorry first sideswiped a black Honda City, registered in Loei province, which was parked at the roadside with no occupants inside. Following the initial collision, the out-of-control vehicle veered into a makeshift fruit stall, tragically killing three people on-site. The victims were identified as Ms Usa Phaopeng, 38, the stall owner, and her two sons, Phuwadol Phonsueb, 12, and Peerapat Phonsueb, aged just six. The driver of the lorry, Mr Jiraphong Aekkratok, along with his wife Ms Supatra Wichaisung and their two sons, Jiraphat and Jirayu Aekkratok, all sustained minor injuries. They were promptly transported to Na Di Hospital for medical treatment. Local authorities are continuing their investigation into the crash. Early indications suggest driver fatigue as the primary cause of the incident. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-04-27.

National Parks Department Denies Sondhi’s Allegations over Multi-Million Baht Boat Purchases Picture courtesy of Matichon. The Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP) has issued an official statement firmly rejecting allegations made by Sondhi Limthongkul on his programme “SONDHI TALK” regarding the department’s procurement of patrol boats worth hundreds of millions of baht. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1358939-national-parks-department-denies-sondhi’s-allegations-over-multi-million-baht-boat-purchases/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. The Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP) has issued an official statement firmly rejecting allegations made by Sondhi Limthongkul on his programme “SONDHI TALK” regarding the department’s procurement of patrol boats worth hundreds of millions of baht. The statement clarified that the purchases of boats were carried out strictly according to the Public Procurement and Supplies Administration Act B.E. 2560 (2017) and all relevant regulations. All procurement procedures, including price determination and terms of reference (TOR) specifications, were handled with the utmost transparency, focusing on operational efficiency and safety. The DNP detailed its recent boat procurement projects: • In the fiscal year 2024, the department purchased 26 motorboats, each at least 5.5 metres long and equipped with engines of at least 100 horsepower, at a total cost of 29,588,000 baht. These boats are already in use for water patrols and the protection of natural resources in national parks with water territories. • For the fiscal year 2025, the DNP is in the process of procuring 40 rigid inflatable boats with aluminium hulls, each over 6.6 metres long and powered by 140-horsepower engines, complete with trailers. This project has a budget of 112,000,000 baht and aims to enhance marine resource research, law enforcement, and visitor safety in marine national parks. The department also clarified past procurements, including: • The 2020 purchase of 14 rigid inflatable boats with a budget of 36,400,000 baht for marine research and patrol missions. • The procurement of nine fibreglass boats, each over 38 feet long with dual 300-horsepower engines and trailers, costing 67,500,000 baht. Refuting Sondhi’s claim that Thai Marine (Phuket) Co., Ltd. had participated in the bidding process, the DNP stated that no bid submissions from this company were found in its records. Furthermore, the department denied allegations that politicians had intervened to divert national park revenue for boat purchases. The DNP explained that all procurements are financed either through the annual national budget or through strictly regulated national park funds, following the department’s 2021 financial management regulations. Addressing further claims about the minister’s alleged close ties with a tour company operating boats in restricted areas, the DNP asserted that no private companies or individuals were granted special permission to enter protected zones. Any violations of protected area regulations are dealt with according to the law. The DNP reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, legality, and the sustainable protection and restoration of Thailand’s natural resources and environment, in line with the policies of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment under the Minister and the current government. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-04-27.

Driver Killed After Tanker Overturns on Motorway Flyover Picture courtesy of Workpoint. A 27-year-old lorry driver was killed in a crash after his tanker overturned while negotiating a curve on a motorway flyover in Chachoengsao province. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1358938-driver-killed-after-tanker-overturns-on-motorway-flyover/

Picture courtesy of Workpoint. A 27-year-old lorry driver was killed in a crash after his tanker overturned while negotiating a curve on a motorway flyover in Chachoengsao province. At approximately 09:00 on 26 April, Police Lieutenant Colonel Sophon Komonsutthi, Deputy Superintendent (Investigation) of Highway Police Subdivision 1, along with rescue teams from Chachoengsao and fire crews from Bangwua Khanarak Municipality, responded to reports of a crash on the Bang Khwai overpass, located at kilometre marker 0+400 of the motorway leading towards Bang Bo tollgate in Phimpa subdistrict, Bang Pakong district. At the scene, authorities found a white Hino, overturned across the bridge. The tanker had crashed into the steel barriers along the flyover, causing a significant CNG (compressed natural gas) leak. Fire crews deployed water spray lines, to control and disperse the leaking gas, before successfully isolating the leak. The body of the driver, identified as Mr Apichart was found near the cab, having been ejected from the vehicle during the crash. His body was pinned against the steel railing and crushed by the truck. Rescue workers used hydraulic cutting equipment to free his body, a process which took around 15 minutes. His body was later transported to Bang Pakong Hospital for a post-mortem examination. Initial investigations suggest that the lorry was travelling at speed and the driver lost control while entering the curve, causing the vehicle to overturn, with the cab slamming into the bridge barrier. Mr Apichart was thrown from the cab and fatally struck the barrier before being trapped by the truck. Further investigations are ongoing. Adapted by Asean Now from Workpoint 2025-04-27.

UPDATE Suspect Reenacts Shooting of 17-Year-Old Girl, Claims It Was Unintentional Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A 25-year-old man has been taken into custody and escorted by police to the scene of a fatal shooting to reenact the crime, amid claims he did not intend to kill the 17-year-old victim. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1358414-teen-girl-17-shot-dead-after-exchange-of-looks-at-thai-bbq-restaurant/page/2/#findComment-19761158

UPDATE Suspect Reenacts Shooting of 17-Year-Old Girl, Claims It Was Unintentional Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A 25-year-old man has been taken into custody and escorted by police to the scene of a fatal shooting to reenact the crime, amid claims he did not intend to kill the 17-year-old victim. The suspect, known as “Spy”, was arrested under a warrant issued by Thanyaburi Provincial Court for intentional murder, illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition, carrying a firearm in public without permission, and discharging a firearm in a public place. He was apprehended along with Natthawut, or “Mos”, 29, who assisted him in evading the capture. Both were arrested at a petrol station in Nong Khao, Tha Muang District, Kanchanaburi. Province. At approximately 10:30 on 26 April, Colonel Kanthaphon Wanna, Superintendent of Khu Khot Police Station, led officers in escorting Spy to the scene of the shooting in Lam Sam Kaew Subdistrict, Lam Luk Ka District, Pathum Thani Province. During preliminary questioning, Spy claimed that he did not know the victim or her group personally. He explained that an exchange of glances occurred between the two groups at a barbecue restaurant, leading to tension. Spy allegations that derogatory remarks were made by the victim’s group, mentioning “Soi 92”, a reference to a local area. Feeling provoked, he admitted to firing three shots first, which was met with a single retaliatory shot from the other group. Spy expressed remorse, stating: “I didn’t intend to harm anyone. I want to apologise to the victim’s family. I accept responsibility for what I have done.” He also clarified that the firearm used was a modified blank gun belonging to a friend. Colonel Kanthaphon stated that the altercation appeared to have stemmed solely from mutual glances, with no prior acquaintance or existing conflict between the two groups. The incident, he said, reflected the impulsive emotions of youth rather than any deeper vendetta. Following the reenactment, Spy was formally charged and immediately remanded into custody at Thanyaburi Provincial Court. Investigations revealed that after the shooting on the evening of 20 April, the victim, identified as “Nong Tangmo”, aged 17, was taken to hospital but later succumbed to her injuries. The shooting occurred within a residential alley in Lam Sam Kaew Subdistrict. Police examined CCTV footage from the area, leading to the identification of the suspect. An arrest warrant was subsequently issued, and a 50,000 baht reward was offered for information leading to his capture. Spy was apprehended days later, along with Mos, who had assisted him in fleeing by motorcycle. The weapon used has been sent to the Region 1 Forensic Science Center for further examination. The investigation remains ongoing. Adapted by Asean Now from Khoasod 2025-04-27.

Major Raid in Bangkok Uncovers Over 100,000 Counterfeit Goods Worth 20 Million Baht Picture courtesy of Siam News. Authorities have seized more than 100,000 counterfeit items with an estimated value exceeding 20 million baht following a major operation at a prominent shopping centre in Bangkok. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1358937-major-raid-in-bangkok-uncovers-over-100000-counterfeit-goods-worth-20-million-baht/

Picture courtesy of Siam News. Authorities have seized more than 100,000 counterfeit items with an estimated value exceeding 20 million baht following a major operation at a prominent shopping centre in Bangkok. The raid, conducted under the direction of Police Lieutenant Colonel Yutthana Praedam, Director-General of the Department of Special Investigation (DSI), and Deputy Director-General Police Lieutenant Visanu Chimtrakun, targeted 19 locations suspected of selling and storing counterfeit goods. The operation involved DSI officials from the Intellectual Property Crime Division and Special Operations Division, who executed search warrants issued by the Central Intellectual Property and International Trade Court. During the inspections, officers discovered large quantities of counterfeit products, including clothing, sportswear, handbags, sunglasses, footwear, and tumblers, bearing the trademarks of renowned brands such as Nike, Under Armour, Adidas, Louis Vuitton, Hermès, Chanel, and Gucci. Representatives of the trademark holders were present to observe the raids. The seized goods, believed to cause economic damage of approximately 20 million baht, have been confiscated and handed over to special case investigators for further examination. The case is being pursued as Special Case No. 105/2567 and may involve violations of the Customs Act B.E. 2560 (2017) and the Trademark Act B.E. 2534 (1991) as amended. Authorities are now working to trace the network responsible for importing and distributing the counterfeit products and to identify those behind the operation. The DSI emphasised that it is committed to vigorously combating intellectual property rights violations to protect consumers from the dangers associated with counterfeit goods and to support Thailand’s economic stability. Strengthening enforcement efforts also aims to improve Thailand’s international standing in intellectual property protection. Adapted by Asean Now from Siam News 2025-04-27.

Rescue Boat Capsizes During Search for Drowning Victim in Nakhon Si Thammarat An incident has claimed the life of a rescue diver after a search and recovery mission ended in disaster when a rescue boat capsized while returning to shore. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1358936-rescue-boat-capsizes-during-search-for-drowning-victim-in-nakhon-si-thammarat/

Picture from responders. An incident has claimed the life of a rescue diver after a search and recovery mission ended in disaster when a rescue boat capsized while returning to shore. The incident occurred during the ongoing search for a 30-year-old man, identified as Mr. Wallop, who had drowned near an overflow weir in Khlong Tha Luang, adjacent to Wat Khao Ro, Moo 5, Thewang Subdistrict, Thung Song District. Emergency services, including police officers, rescue teams, and divers from various foundations, mobilised quickly but were hampered by the fast-flowing waters. Despite working tirelessly through the night, rescuers were forced to suspend operations temporarily due to the hazardous conditions. Search efforts resumed early the following morning on 25 April. Dozens of rescuers joined forces to continue the search, but by 15:55, they had to halt operations once again to regroup and strategise. It was during the attempt to return the boat to shore that disaster struck, the strong current overturned the vessel. Rescue teams on the riverbank were able to save four divers: Mr. Boonlert Phiande, 38; Mr. Teerayut Chansomut, 37; Mr. Panupong Thipchitcholtarn, 30; and Mr. Supachai Suwanmek, 35. However, Mr. Pitiphum “Dave” Tapol, 34, a diver from the Siam Ruamjai Po In Foundation based in Ron Phibun District, was lost to the waters. It is believed Mr. Pitiphum was struck on the head by the boat during the capsize, rendering him unconscious and unable to save himself. Despite desperate efforts from his colleagues, they were unable to revive him. His death has devastated the rescue community, where he was widely respected for his years of selfless service. Meanwhile, the search for Mr. Wallop, the original drowning victim, continues. Despite the extensive efforts of the rescue teams throughout the day, he remains missing. Eyewitnesses described the initial incident. A local farmer tending cattle near the overflow weir heard a splash and saw a man struggling in the water. Realising the danger, he immediately alerted authorities. Villagers attempted to assist by throwing a water container towards the victim, but the force of the current was too strong, and the man was swept away before he could grab hold. Adapted by Asean Now from Khomchadluek 2025-04-27.

Myanmar Man Dies After Motorcycle Crash While Following GPS in Ayutthaya Picture courtesy of Matichon. A Myanmar national has died and his female companion is in critical condition following a motorcycle crash in Ayutthaya in the early hours of 26 April. The crash occurred when the man lost control of his motorcycle and collided with a U-turn bridge barrier while navigating using GPS. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1358934-myanmar-man-dies-after-motorcycle-crash-while-following-gps-in-ayutthaya/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. A Myanmar national has died and his female companion is in critical condition following a motorcycle crash in Ayutthaya in the early hours of 26 April. The crash occurred when the man lost control of his motorcycle and collided with a U-turn bridge barrier while navigating using GPS. At approximately 00:30, Pol. Lt. Mala Yaemchom of Bang Pa-in Police Station received a report of a crash on the outbound carriageway of the Asia Highway at kilometre marker 9 in Ban Wa Subdistrict. Emergency services from Bang Pa-in Hospital and Ayutthaya Ruamjai Rescue Association were dispatched to the scene. Rescuers arrived to find the body of a Myanmar man, estimated to be between 25 and 30 years old, lying face down beneath the U-turn bridge. He was pronounced dead at the scene due to the impact. A Myanmar woman, believed to be his girlfriend and around 20 to 25 years old, was found nearby with severe injuries. She was rushed to Bang Pa-in Hospital for emergency treatment. On the bridge above, officers discovered a blue motorcycle without registration plates lying on its side. Scrape marks along the road surface indicated the bike had lost control before hitting the metal barrier. A mobile phone belonging to the deceased was also found on the ground, with a navigation app still open, the GPS arrow frozen precisely at the bend where the crash occurred. Police believe the couple was returning to their accommodation when the man, unfamiliar with the route, followed GPS directions up the U-turn bridge. He likely lost control while navigating the curve, leading to the fatal collision and fall from the bridge. The man’s body was sent for a post-mortem examination at Bang Pa-in Hospital. Authorities are working to contact relatives to arrange for funeral rites. The injured woman remains under medical supervision, and police will conduct a further interview when her condition improves. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-04-27.

Senior Police Sergeant Shoots Village Headman in Heated Dispute in Phetchaburi Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A senior police sergeant is in custody after allegedly shooting a village headman four times during a heated argument in Phetchaburi province. The incident occurred on the morning of 26 April in Moo 4, Yang Yong subdistrict, Ta Yang District. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1358933-senior-police-sergeant-shoots-village-headman-in-heated-dispute-in-phetchaburi/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A senior police sergeant is in custody after allegedly shooting a village headman four times during a heated argument in Phetchaburi province. The incident occurred on the morning of 26 April in Moo 4, Yang Yong subdistrict, Ta Yang District. According to police reports, the suspect, identified as Pol. Sgt. Maj. Bundit Siriwanich of Ta Yang Police Station, visited his long-time friend, Mr Pramote Phumthong, the village headman of Moo 4. The two men were reportedly having a conversation at the reception table in the garden of Mr Pramote’s home when the exchange turned confrontational. It is believed that a remark made during the conversation upset Sgt. Maj. Bundit, leading to a verbal altercation. As Mr Pramote walked away into the house, the officer, still enraged, drew a 9mm handgun and fired four shots. One bullet struck Mr Pramote in the left buttock. Three spent casings were recovered near the seating area and a fourth was found approximately ten metres away. Mr Pramote was swiftly transported to Ta Yang Hospital by family members and is reported to be in a stable condition. Following the shooting, Sgt. Maj. Bundit initially fled the scene but later surrendered himself at Ta Yang Police Station. An investigation is underway. Police officials confirmed that the officer and the village headman had known each other for some time and were thought to be on friendly terms prior to the incident. The motive appears to have stemmed from a personal dispute, and further charges are expected as the case progresses. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-04-27.

Commerce Ministry Targets Over 10 Foreign-Linked Businesses in Huai Khwang Crackdown Pictures courtesy of Matichon. The Ministry of Commerce has announced that legal action is being prepared against more than ten businesses in the Huai Khwang district of Bangkok, following a coordinated inspection campaign aimed at identifying illegal foreign business operations. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1358932-commerce-ministry-targets-over-10-foreign-linked-businesses-in-huai-khwang-crackdown/

Pictures courtesy of Matichon. The Ministry of Commerce has announced that legal action is being prepared against more than ten businesses in the Huai Khwang district of Bangkok, following a coordinated inspection campaign aimed at identifying illegal foreign business operations. Mr. Naphinthorn Srisanpang, Deputy Commerce Minister, revealed that the crackdown followed orders from the Committee for the Management of Foreign Goods and Business Violations, chaired by Commerce Minister Mr. Pichai Nariptaphan. A special task force, led by Deputy Permanent Secretary of Commerce Lt. Col. Jakkra Yodmanee, conducted inspections on 25 April. The inspections covered ten restaurants, one supermarket, and one real estate agency located along Pracharat Bamphen and Ratchadaphisek roads. The multi-agency operation included officials from the Department of Business Development, Department of Employment, Immigration Bureau, Economic Crime Suppression Division, and the Huai Khwang District Office. Preliminary findings revealed one restaurant suspected of operating without the required permits under the Foreign Business Act. This case will be formally handed over to the Economic Crime Suppression Division for further legal action. Moreover, several other businesses displayed behaviour consistent with the use of Thai nominees to illegally facilitate foreign ownership, a practice prohibited under Thai law. Authorities plan to summon the owners for further investigation and require them to clarify the nature of their operations. It was also noted that many businesses closed temporarily upon noticing the inspections, raising suspicions about possible legal violations. Special task forces will return to these businesses for further scrutiny when they reopen. Mr. Naphinthorn stressed that this proactive enforcement is designed to protect legitimate Thai businesses and the broader economy. He warned Thai citizens who act as nominees for foreigners, holding shares or otherwise supporting unlawful business practices, that they face serious penalties, including imprisonment of up to three years, fines ranging from 100,000 to 1,000,000 baht, or both. Furthermore, courts can order the cessation of nominee arrangements, with non-compliance leading to additional daily fines of 10,000 to 50,000 baht. The Deputy Minister affirmed that the task force will continue its operations rigorously and without interruption to ensure compliance with the law and safeguard national economic interests. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-04-27.

Thai Air Transport Industry Shines in 2024 with 22% Growth and Record Profits Picture courtesy of Matichon. Thailand’s air transport sector has emerged as a standout performer in 2024, with impressive growth of 22% and profits soaring to 56.4 billion baht, according to Mrs. Oramon Sapthaweetham, Director-General of the Department of Business Development at the Ministry of Commerce. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1358930-thai-air-transport-industry-shines-in-2024-with-22-growth-and-record-profits/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. Thailand’s air transport sector has emerged as a standout performer in 2024, with impressive growth of 22% and profits soaring to 56.4 billion baht, according to Mrs. Oramon Sapthaweetham, Director-General of the Department of Business Development at the Ministry of Commerce. Mrs. Oramon revealed that 2024 marked a golden year for Thailand’s air transport industry, with both revenue and profitability reaching new highs. This trend is expected to continue, reflecting the global air transport sector’s robust performance, with projected revenues surpassing USD 1 trillion, profits estimated at USD 36.6 billion, over 5.2 billion passengers, and 72.5 million tonnes of air cargo. In Thailand, the air transport industry remains a high-investment, high-barrier sector with few players. This exclusivity stems from the substantial investment required and the need to meet stringent international aviation standards. As a result, the number of newly established entities each year remains limited: four companies were established in 2022, nine in 2023 (an increase of 125%), seven in 2024 (a decrease of 22.23%), and only one company during the first quarter of 2025, with a registered capital of just 200,000 baht. Foreign investment in Thailand’s air transport sector currently totals 7.15 billion baht, accounting for 13.36% of total investment. The top three foreign investors are China (215.16 million baht), Switzerland (206.25 million baht), and Malaysia (204.62 million baht). Over the past three years (2021–2023), the sector’s average annual revenue stood at 268.96 billion baht, with average profits of 56.42 billion baht. In 2021, total revenue reached 190.06 billion baht, with profits of 69.58 billion baht. In 2022, revenue rose by 29.15% to 245.46 billion baht, but profits fell by 62.87% to 25.84 billion baht. In 2023, revenue surged by 51.30% to 371.37 billion baht, and profits climbed by 185.88% to 73.86 billion baht, reflecting a strong recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic’s severe impacts. Currently, Thailand hosts 141 air transport operators, with a combined registered capital of 53.5 billion baht. Of these, 128 (90.78%) are private companies, nine (6.38%) are partnerships, and four (2.84%) are public companies, with the latter accounting for 80.58% of the sector’s registered capital. According to the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand, the country handled 141 million air passengers in 2024, a 16% increase from 122 million in 2023. Total flights rose by 12% to 886,438, while air cargo volume grew by over 22% to 1.51 million tonnes. The surge was attributed to the reopening of borders, visa waivers, tourism recovery, and the expanding e-commerce sector. Air transport is a critical driver of Thailand’s economy, both in passenger travel and freight. Thailand aims to become a regional aviation hub and climb from 19th to 9th place globally by 2033. According to SCB Economic Intelligence Center (EIC), key factors that could propel Thailand to regional aviation leadership include: 1. Improving airport efficiency and connectivity through public-private cooperation and the adoption of advanced technology. 2. Strengthening Thai-flagged airlines to increase international connectivity, as leading global airports typically rely on national carriers for about 50% of their traffic, while Thailand lags in this area. 3. Continuously upgrading airport infrastructure to ease congestion. 4. Developing an aviation hub focused on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards. 5. Enhancing flexibility to address disruptions, including building resilient hub networks and expanding point-to-point and air cargo services. The government is seen as playing a pivotal role in infrastructure development, such as airport runways and air traffic systems, while the private sector must deliver efficient services. Both sectors must collaborate closely to bolster Thai airlines, expand direct flight routes, and integrate technology to boost competitiveness. Mrs. Oramon also warned that the industry must navigate significant risks, including rising aviation costs, geopolitical uncertainties, fluctuating oil prices, and global trade tensions, all of which pose unavoidable challenges for Thai aviation. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-04-27.

Motorcyclist Killed After Crashing into Stationary Lorry at Red Light in Chachoengsao Pictures courtesy of Matichon. A young woman has died after riding her motorcycle into the rear of a stationary six-wheeled lorry waiting at a red light in Chachoengsao province during the early hours of 26 April. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1358929-motorcyclist-killed-after-crashing-into-stationary-lorry-at-red-light-in-chachoengsao/