Bangkok Airways has always been a faithful participant at ITB Berlin. At the show this year, Travelmole sat down with Mr. Puttipong Prasarttong-Osoth, Bangkok Airways CEO, who shared how the airline is managing political uncertainties on its international network, while preparing for long-term fleet renewal, airport upgrades and sustainability commitments.
https://vimeo.com/1170612735
How did 2025 perform for Bangkok Airways?
Puttipong Prasarttong-Osoth – We were very close to our targets in passenger numbers and revenue. We carried 4.2 million passengers, slightly below our 4.4 million goal on a fleet of 23 aircraft, ATR and Airbus A319. Cost control was strong, and fuel prices remained relatively stable.
What about fleet development?
Puttipong Prasarttong-Osoth – We have signed for 10+2 new ATR 72 aircraft. Deliveries begin in Q4 this year and continue through 2028. We currently operate 13 Airbus A319s and may look at replacement options, as this model is no longer
produced.
Could you share some information on your network evolution and expansion?
Puttipong Prasarttong-Osoth – International traffic has been affected by the ongoing tensions between Cambodia and Thailand. Traffic between Bangkok and Phnom Penh declined significantly and we had to reduce our offer from three daily flights to one. Siem Reap remains stable, however, with three daily services. We used to fly to Myanmar but the political situation remains difficult, and there is a lot of competition in Vietnam now.
Could you rebalance capacity elsewhere?
Puttipong Prasarttong-Osoth – Yes, particularly to Samui Airport. We increased permitted daily movements from 50 to 60, with a long-term target of 73. We also strengthened regional connections within Thailand. On the international front, we are considering resuming Samui–Kuala Lumpur and possibly Singapore, depending on market conditions and also our fleet capacity. Post-COVID, we operate 23 aircraft compared to 40 previously, so efficiency is key.
How has the current global situation impacted your
operations?
Puttipong Prasarttong-Osoth – It is still too early to measure the full impact. In the first days, we missed fewer than 300 passengers, then around 500–600 the following day. The numbers are not significant overall. Many passengers were able to re-route and continue their journeys to Thailand. In the short term, it is manageable. And as usual in such situations, we allow flight and date changes. We try to be flexible and support passengers who miss connections.
Do you foresee longer-term consequences?
Puttipong Prasarttong-Osoth – The bigger concern could be ticket prices. If airfares stay 3 to 4 times higher than usual, this may influence demand. All will depend on fuel prices and travelers’ confidence. This is a global issue, not limited to one region.
Are you investing in your airport infrastructure?
Puttipong Prasarttong-Osoth – We work at expanding capacity in Samui. Runway extension is not possible due to physical constraints. However, we can work on terminal capacity expansion. From Q3 this year we will begin phased renovations to improve passenger facilities and efficiency.
Can you tell us about your sustainability commitments?
Puttipong Prasarttong-Osoth – We began using Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) last year on 1% of our international flights. We source it through PTT Oil and Retail Business (OR). Supply in Thailand remains limited, but we aim to increase usage gradually in line with international aviation targets.
Final thoughts?
Puttipong Prasarttong-Osoth – Demand for Thailand is resilient. Our focus is on efficiency, sustainability and strengthening our core network.
