Bangkok:The government has announced the successful development of a direct flight route between Thailand and China, which is set to save over 40 million baht in fuel costs and reduce CO2 emissions by 2,561 tons annually, contributing to sustainable growth in Thailand's aviation sector.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Ploytalay Laksmisangchan, Deputy Spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, highlighted that the government is advancing efforts to upgrade aviation infrastructure and incorporate digital technology to enhance air traffic management. This initiative aims to boost safety, minimize flight delays, and promote eco-friendly aviation practices, ensuring the efficiency, safety, and sustainable growth of Thailand's aviation system.
Ms. Ploytalay further explained that Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport, Mr. Pipat Ratchakitprakarn, has tasked the Aeronautical Radio of Thailand Co., Ltd. (AeroThai) with executing the Direct Routing for Sustainable Aviation (DRSA) project. This project is designed to optimize airspace usage, shorten flight distances and travel times for passengers, and cut down on fuel consumption and carbon emissions. The initiative is expected to lower costs, enhance airline competitiveness, foster regional economic connectivity, and support the Ministry of Transport's ambition to position Thailand as a World-Class Aviation Hub, with long-term benefits for the public, society, and the environment.
The Aeronautical Information Service (AIS) has utilized its air traffic management expertise to develop efficient flight routes with measurable environmental benefits through the DRSA project. This collaboration between Thailand, Laos, and China has resulted in a direct flight path for the L770 aircraft between NAN and SAGAG, operational since September 3, 2026. As of October 23, 2026, this route has been used by 530 flights, achieving a cumulative reduction of 18,525 nautical miles, fuel savings of 112,890 kilograms, and a decrease in carbon dioxide emissions by 357 tons.
Currently, 23 out of 26 airlines are utilizing this route. Additionally, AeroThai plans to develop three more direct flight routes connecting the west and east and to create a DRSA Dashboard to systematically analyze and monitor flight distance, fuel efficiency, and greenhouse gas emissions. The direct L770 flight route between NAN and SAGG is projected to save airlines over 40.5 million baht per year in fuel costs, highlighting the economic, social, and environmental benefits of developing efficient flight routes.