Thai govt wants more China, Laos routes

The government will ask Laos and China to open more flight routes to Thailand over the next two years to help fulfil Thailand's ambition to become a regional aviation hub, spokesman Chai Watcharonke said on Monday. Chai said it is part of Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin's "Ignite Thailand" vision, which seeks to elevate Thailand's status to hubs in eight main industries, including aviation, by 2030. According to one recent forecast by the Aeronautical Radio of Thailand (Aerothai), Mr Chai added that air traffic between Thailand and the two countries would double if talks to increase flights prove fruitful. With this vision in mind, Chai said that the government is coming up with ideas to tighten up the domestic aviation industry so that it remains competitive and is able to grow no matter the economic climate. More capacity for flights into and out of the country would provide airlines with attractive options to fly to or stop over in Thailand, thereby creating economic opportunities and a brighter future for the aviation industry, Chai added.<br/>