The meeting, held at the multipurpose pavilion in Moo 7, Baan Ao Makham, was chaired by Phuket Vice Governor Samawit Suphanphai and attended by representatives from Thai Seaplane Co Ltd, the Faculty of Environment at Kasetsart University, local officials, the private sector, the media and community members.
Vice Governor Samawit said the project would expand Phuket’s air transport infrastructure to attract high-end visitors and reinforce the island’s position as a leading global destination.
“Phuket has strong potential thanks to its natural resources, premium accommodations, and high-quality services,” he said. “This project will help support our provincial development plan, promote sustainable tourism, and strengthen Phuket’s role as a world-class maritime and wellness hub.”
The proposed operation involves the creation of a temporary water-based takeoff and landing area in Phuket Bay, off Phuket’s east coast. The service will cater to high-net-worth travellers, linking Phuket to destinations across the Andaman, including Krabi, Phang Nga, the Phi Phi Islands, the Similan Islands and Koh Lipe.
Mr Samawit emphasised that the public forum was an essential opportunity for residents, agencies and stakeholders to voice opinions or environmental concerns to ensure transparency and accountability in the project’s development.
Thai Seaplane CEO Kasinpoj Rodko explained yesterday that the company was founded on Oct 3, 2023, with registered capital of B25 million and plans to invest more than B100mn over the next three years.
“Our goal is to provide safe, premium air transport experiences that connect the Andaman’s most beautiful locations,” Mr Kasinpoj said. “Each flight will be under 90 minutes, offering a convenient and scenic alternative for travellers.”
Thai Seaplane recently celebrated Thailand’s first licensed seaplane pilot ‒ trained and certified in Flensburg, Germany. Company staff also recently underwent extensive training with Trans Maldivian Airways (TMA) ‒ the world’s largest seaplane operator.
The company has also appointed the Faculty of Environment at Kasetsart University to prepare an Initial Environmental Examination (IEE) report, required under the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment’s regulations.
Mr Kasinpoj noted that the IEE report will form part of the application for operating permits from relevant agencies.
The public meeting aimed to ensure that local voices are included in the decision-making process.
“We welcome all opinions,” he said. “This collaboration between government, academia, and the community will help ensure that the project aligns with sustainable development goals and benefits Phuket’s future as a high-quality tourism hub.”