The Thai government has announced plans to introduce seaplane services in the Andaman region as part of a wider strategy to develop Thailand into a regional aviation hub and attract higher-spending tourists.

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On 9 June 2026, Deputy Government Spokesperson Lalida Pherdsriwattana said the government, led by Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, is moving forward with efforts to strengthen the country’s transport and tourism sectors. The initiative aims to position Thailand as an Aviation Hub while supporting quality tourism and generating greater economic value in destinations across the country.

The announcement follows a visit by Deputy Transport Minister Pattarapong Pattarasit to Krabi International Airport, where he met with government agencies and private-sector representatives to discuss the introduction of seaplane services. The proposed service is intended to improve connections between key Andaman tourism destinations and provide a faster and more convenient travel option for international visitors.

Pattarapong said the Ministry of Transport aims to develop Krabi International Airport as an “Airport for Regional Development”. The concept focuses on seamless links between the airport and nearby islands and marine tourism destinations, supporting future growth in the tourism industry. He said seaplanes would become part of the transport infrastructure designed to enhance Thailand’s competitiveness as a tourism destination.

To advance the project, the ministry is establishing a Strategic Integration Committee for Seaplane Operations. The committee will bring together government agencies, aviation specialists and private-sector stakeholders to develop operational guidelines under aviation safety standards. Pattarapong has been appointed chairman of the committee by Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn.

According to the government, seaplane operations could support not only high-value and high-spending tourists but also related industries including aviation, tourism, hotels, restaurants, service businesses, emergency medical services and maritime security operations. Officials believe the project could create jobs and generate additional income for local communities.

Pattarapong confirmed that Krabi will serve as Thailand’s first pilot province for seaplane services. Trial flights on the Krabi-Phuket route are expected to begin during 2026, marking what the government describes as an important step in developing a new form of air transport for the country and a model for other coastal tourism areas.

Amarin reported that Lalida said the government is focused on creating an integrated transport system linking travel, tourism and economic development. She said the Andaman seaplane project is intended to enhance the visitor experience, increase local economic value and strengthen Thailand’s position as a global tourism destination.

Pictures courtesy of Amarin

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Adapted by ASEAN Now Amarin 10 June 2026

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That's an idea that would actually work. I'd take that flight, just for the sightseeing tour of the spectacular landscape, and would be well worth it ... if I didn't already have those views from my drones.

I chartered some private guy in Florida to fly around the coast, in an old single engine 3 seater. Way too cool, and while up there, his bud did a fly-by in a bi-plane and did a loop. 2 for 1, tour w/air show.

Way cheaper and better than any 'tourist' flight, as he was going up anyway, and I probably paid for the fuel, well part of, as he didn't charge much, probably just happy to show off his vintage plane. I got the feeling he would have took us, even if I didn't offer money first. Who doesn't like showing their toys.