Bangkok: More than 1,000 flights to Thailand have been cancelled due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, impacting the volume of flights within the country's airspace.

According to Thai News Agency, Aeronautical Radio of Thailand (AeroThai) has been assessing the situation and managing air traffic to accommodate changes in flight routes. Mr. Surachai Nuphrom, Deputy Managing Director and Acting Managing Director of AeroThai, reported that the conflict may affect flight routes between Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, resulting in airlines from the Middle East cancelling over 1,000 flights to Thailand since February 28, 2016. This represents about 3% of the total flight volume. Among the affected airports, Suvarnabhumi Airport canceled over 600 flights, and Phuket Airport canceled over 400 flights, with Krabi, Chiang Mai, and Don Mueang airports also experiencing cancellations.

AeroThai has analyzed the situation, taking into account uncertainties from the conflict, the energy crisis, and rising oil prices, which have led to a gradual increase in airline fares. While the aviation industry is expected to grow compared to last year, the growth will be slower than pre-conflict trends. AeroThai projects a limited growth in flight volume by 2026, not exceeding a 3% increase compared to 2025, depending on the severity and future trends of the situation.

Mr. Surachai further stated that AeroThai is closely monitoring changes in flight routes, airspace closures, and global economic factors affecting the aviation industry. The organization is prepared to manage air traffic amid potential increases in flights and changes in routes. The volatility of global oil prices due to the conflict may impact airline operating costs and passenger demand for air travel in the long term. AeroThai is committed to managing air traffic efficiently in alignment with the country's aviation industry development to support regional aviation growth and changes.