Airbus projects a demand for about 20,000 new aircraft in the Asia Pacific region over the next 20 years, representing half of global aircraft demand. Anand Stanley, President of Airbus for the Asia Pacific, highlighted Thailand’s growing importance in this market. He noted that Thailand is not only developing as a hub for aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul services but is also becoming a center for advanced aviation technology and engineering.
Thailand is one of the largest aviation markets in the region. Airbus aircraft are already operated by several Thai carriers, including Thai Airways International, Bangkok Airways, Thai AirAsia, and Thai VietJet. Thai Airways is also expected to introduce the A321neo aircraft with a new business-class configuration by the end of the year. Airbus plans to deliver 820 aircraft globally in 2025, with many orders coming from Asia Pacific.
The aviation sector in Thailand plays a key role in the economy, supporting more than 130,000 jobs and contributing over 7 percent of GDP before the Covid-19 pandemic. Airbus also sees strong potential for Thailand in sustainable aviation fuel production, with a capacity to produce more than 5 million metric tons annually using agricultural byproducts such as molasses, rice straw, and corn stalks.
To strengthen its presence, Airbus has opened a 1,200 square meter office in Thailand. This facility includes NAVBLUE, its digital aviation unit, and will serve as both a regional operations hub and a software testing center for airline clients across Asia Pacific.
(Source: The Nation)
