Thailand's Aviation Industry and the Green Mission: From Challenges to Opportunities in the New Era

When discussing travel in the 21st century, aircraft are what make our world smaller. People can cross continents in just a few hours, businesses expand across borders, and tourism has become a massive industry. However, behind this convenience lies the shadow of enormous environmental problems.

The global aviation industry produces approximately 2-3% of all carbon dioxide emissions created by humans. This figure may seem small, but when considering the industry's growth, which is expected to double in the next 15 years, the urgency of finding solutions becomes unavoidable.

Thailand at a Critical Turning Point

As Southeast Asia's aviation hub, Thailand has an unavoidable responsibility regarding this transformation. Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang airports serve as gateways to the world for millions of tourists, while various airlines in Thailand continue to expand their flight routes.

The awakening of Thailand's aviation sector to sustainability issues is clearly evident from the organization of the "SDGs in Thailand Aviation Industry Forum" by the College of Aviation Development and Training at Dhurakij Pundit University, in collaboration with the Association of Aviation Educational Institutions and Personnel of Thailand.

This forum brought together experts from all sectors, including representatives from IATA, Thai Airways, Thai AirAsia, Siam Land Flying, Thai Lion Air, and Bangkok Airways, to exchange experiences and concrete practical approaches.

Net Zero Goal: From Dream to Reality

The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the International Air Transport Association (IATA) have set an ambitious yet necessary goal: to reduce net greenhouse gas emissions to zero (Net Zero) by 2050.

This goal is not merely a figure on paper but a plan that requires major reforms across all industry dimensions, from aircraft design and fuel selection to airport management.

For Thailand, participating in this goal is about demonstrating responsibility to the world and an opportunity to develop an advanced and globally competitive industry.

Innovations Transforming Aviation

Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF): The Heart of Change

One of the most significant changes is the development of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), which can reduce carbon emissions by up to 80% compared to conventional jet fuel.

Some airlines have already begun testing SAF in Thailand, even though its price is 3-5 times higher than that of conventional fuel. However, this long-term investment represents a crucial step toward a sustainable future.

Digital Technology for Maximum Efficiency

The application of digital technology in flight management is another highly effective approach. The One ID system helps reduce paper document usage, while the ONE Record system transforms logistics management to be fully digital.

Additionally, the use of artificial intelligence to predict in-flight meal quantities helps reduce food waste, which is a major problem in the aviation industry.

Efforts by Airlines in Thailand

Fleet Modernization

Various airlines in Thailand have begun upgrading their fleets by choosing newer aircraft with higher fuel efficiency. New generation aircraft such as the Airbus A350 or Boeing 787 use 20-25% less fuel than older aircraft models.

Flight Route Optimization

Selecting appropriate flight routes significantly saves fuel. Advanced air traffic management systems enable aircraft to fly the shortest routes in the least amount of time.

Waste and Resource Management

Sustainability plans include systematic waste management programs on aircraft, reduction of single-use plastics, and material recycling.

The Indispensable Role of Government

Reforming the aviation industry cannot be achieved by the private sector alone. The government plays several crucial roles:

Financial Support

Establishing funds to support airlines investing in sustainability, reducing import taxes for SAF, and green technology equipment will help accelerate change effectively.

Infrastructure Development

Energy-efficient airports, public transportation systems connecting to airports, and domestic SAF production facilities all require government support.

Policy and Standards Setting

Setting greenhouse gas emission standards for the aviation industry and creating carbon credit certification systems will help establish clear operational frameworks.

Challenges Still to Face

Higher Costs

Transitioning to new technologies and sustainable fuels involves high costs, which may affect airfare prices. Therefore, finding a balance between sustainability and competitiveness is crucial.

Passenger Acceptance

Many passengers still prioritize price as the main factor. Creating understanding and awareness about sustainability requires time and effort.

Shortage of Specialists

New technologies require specialists with specific knowledge. Developing personnel to support change is an urgent necessity.

International Cooperation Approaches

Thailand is not moving forward alone. Cooperation with neighboring ASEAN countries and the Asia-Pacific region will help create common standards and economies of scale.

Thailand should seize the opportunities to exchange technology, jointly develop efficient flight routes, and create regional SAF production and distribution networks.

Education and Personnel Development

The College of Aviation Development and Training at Dhurakij Pundit University and other educational institutions play crucial roles in producing a new generation of personnel with knowledge and skills in sustainable aviation.

Developing curricula focused on green technology, environmental management, and aviation innovation will help create quality human resources to support future changes.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Thai Aviation

The transformation of the aviation industry toward sustainability is no longer a future matter but something happening in the present. Thailand has the potential to be a regional leader if it can effectively unite the power of all sectors.

The organization of the "SDGs in Thailand Aviation Industry Forum" is just the beginning. The key to success will be creating sustainable cooperation between the education sector, government, private sector, and citizens.

Soon, when passengers look up at the Thai sky, they will see aircraft bringing convenience and symbols of hope and responsibility toward our world.

Every flight will contribute to creating a sustainable future, and the sky above Thailand will be a stage showing the world that economic development and environmental protection can proceed perfectly together.