CAAT waits for the results of ICAO’s examination

BANGKOK, July 21 (TNA) -- The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) presented air operator certificates (AOC) to two more airlines - Thai Smile and Thai Lion Air, and waits for the results of the International Civil Aviation Organization’s safety examination of Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang airports. Transport Minister Arkhom Termpittayapaisith said that eight out of 23 Thai-registered airlines had received newly issued AOCs. According to him, the eight airlines covered 84% of all aircraft, 92% of all flight numbers and 97% of all passengers served by all locally registered airlines. Besides, the eight airlines operate all international routes of Thai-registered airlines. CAAT Director-General Chula Sukmanop said he would present AOCs to NewGen Airways and MJets within August. Then 13 airlines will have yet to receive the certificates. He also said that representatives of the International Civil Aviation Organization would finish their inspection of Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang airports on July 21 and the organization would report the results in 15 days afterwards. The organisation would give Thailand 15 more days to solve any flaws that might be found. He expected positive results from the ICAO. (TNA)