NokScoot, Thai AirAsia X granted flight permits

BANGKOK, June 13 (TNA) – The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) reissued air operator certificates (AOCs) to two more airlines, Thai AirAsia X and NokScoot yesterday, aiming at seeking the removal of the red flag placed on Thailand by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) last June. Transport Minister Arkhom Termpittayapaisith presided over the presentation ceremony to reissue the AOCs to the two budget airlines, raising the number of Thai-registered airlines, re-certificated under the international standard to five. NokScoot CEO, Piya Yodmani said it is expected to serve about 1.1 million passengers this year after the recertification. If the red flag is removed, the carrier is ready to add more routes to China and will study potential routes to Japan next year. Chief executive of Thai AirAsia X, Nadda Buranasiri said it took about nine months to pass all required processes by the CAAT under globally accepted safety standards. It also plans to expand new routes to northern Asia, particular Japan, which is one of top tourism destinations. CAAT director-general Chula Sukmanop said the combined capacity of the five re-certificated airlines represents 77% of total international routes operated by Thai-registered airlines. In an attempt to seek the removal of the 'red flag' rating for Thailand, CAAT plans to request an ICAO Coordinated Validation Mission in June for the three-month inspection to be completed in September. (TNA)