BANGKOK, Thailand – The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) and eight Thai airlines have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to promote the use of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) in the country, a key mechanism to drive Thailand’s aviation industry toward compliance with global environmental standards and achieve carbon dioxide emission reduction targets.
This MOU also emphasizes the Thai aviation sector’s commitment to supporting key measures from the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), including the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA), in which Thailand is participating. It will also support the ambitious goal of Net Zero carbon emissions in the aviation industry by 2050.
The eight airlines include Thai Airways, Bangkok Airways, K-Mile Air, Nok Air, Thai AirAsia, Thai AirAsia X, Thai Lion Air, and Thai Vietjet Air.
However, the CAAT recognizes the challenge of rising energy costs from the use of SAF and is considering a voluntary carbon surcharge on international flights starting in 2026. The surcharge will demonstrate costs associated with reducing and offsetting carbon emissions in the country’s aviation sector. The CAAT will monitor transparency and ensure compliance with international regulations.
The use of SAF not only reduces carbon emissions according to international standards but also prepares the country for competitiveness in the new, more environmentally conscious aviation ecosystem, enabling Thailand to become a leader in green aviation in the region. (PRD)
