Thailand's ability to implement all of the International Civil Aviation Organisation's (ICAO) standards will benefit tourism, says Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha.
The Thai aviation industry was in disarray when it was red-flagged by the ICAO in June 2015 for failing to adequately deal with "significant safety concerns" within the specified time frame. The country scored just 34.2% for effective implementation of the UN aviation watchdog's standards at that time.
The score however reached 65.07% when the industry was audited by the ICAO team between May 13-22, about 20 months after the red flag was lifted.
"Gen Prayut was satisfied with the result," said deputy government spokesman Werachon Sukondhapatipak.
"Over the past four years, the country's efficiency has almost doubled from the level in 2015, when the ICAO red-flagged the country's aviation industry," said Lt Gen Werachon, adding the country's current level is on par with the average score obtained by 193 member nations attached to the ICAO.
"This success will help create confidence and benefit the aviation sector and tourism industry a great deal," Gen Prayut was quoted by Lt Gen Werachon as saying.
According to the deputy spokesman, the ICAO praised Thailand for making "tangible progress" in tackling aviation problems.
The prime minister said the achievement was attributable to all parties and he thanked the ICAO, the Transport Ministry and private operators for working together to accomplish the task, according to Lt Gen Werachon.
Meanwhile, the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) stressed that efforts will be made to increase the score further.
According to a CAAT source, implementing the ICAO's standards was achieved by the government and the Transport Ministry extending significant support to tackle the shortcomings.
The ICAO audit governs rules and regulations, regulatory mechanism, officer authorisation, airside operations, fleet airworthiness, flight services, and airport facilities.
