BANGKOK, Thailand – The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) has granted official certification for public operations to Phitsanulok and Krabi airports, affirming their status as vital regional aviation hubs. The Department of Airports (DOA) secured certification for Phitsanulok Airport on July 1 and for Krabi Airport on July 4, making them the fourth and fifth DOA-managed airports to meet the regulatory requirements.
The certification process, authorized under Section 45 of the amended Air Navigation Act, requires airports to fully comply with CAAT standards, including infrastructure readiness, operational procedures, and safety systems. Certified airports must also maintain up-to-date aeronautical publications, conduct regular internal audits, and undergo continuous oversight by the aviation regulator.
In addition to Phitsanulok and Krabi, the DOA has already certified Betong, Buriram, and Surat Thani airports. Nakhon Si Thammarat is expected to be the next in line, as the department works through a phased roadmap to bring the remaining 19 DOA-operated airports into compliance. These phases include application, document review, operational inspection, and final certification.
Airports currently under review include Udon Thani, Trang, Khon Kaen, Lampang, and Hua Hin. DOA teams are working to resolve outstanding issues identified by CAAT, with a target of certifying at least two more airports by 2026.
Thailand’s certification effort is a key step in upgrading its aviation infrastructure, enhancing safety standards, and expanding regional air links. This helps ensure more dependable air travel while reinforcing trust among airlines and travelers alike. (NNT)
