Thai SmartLynx to become Thailand’s first ACMI provider
October 1, 2024
Thai SmartLynx is to become Thailand’s first ACMI provider when the carrier – which is being launched to meet seasonal domestic capacity demand – commences operations in early 2025.
With tourism in Thailand set to reach pre-pandemic levels by the end of 2024 (with an estimated 40 million visitors expected by year end), an additional 5.5 million visitors are expected in 2025. However, with only around 130 narrowbody aircraft currently in operation by providers in Thailand, “there will be a need for additional short haul capacity,” explains Thai SmartLynx.
The introduction of ACMI-leased aircraft from Thai SmartLynx will therefore “help Thailand’s airlines meet seasonal demand in an optimal manner by providing flexible capacity soutions,” continued Thai SmartLynx, which added that the tourism season in the country is counter-seasonal to European demand.
The period between June-August and January-March are typically the busiest periods for domestic travel in Thailand, driven by tourist travel and the school holiday season (which, contrary to Europe’s September start, commences in May every year).
“With a 10% increase in domestic tourism predicted in the country over the next few years, there is a clear need for ACMI to provide additional capacity to this market,” explained Chairman of Avia Solutions Group Gediminas Ziemelis. Avia Solutions Group, the world’s largest ACMI provider, will partner with Thai SmartLynx to provide this supplemental capacity.
The Bangkok-based airline is currently working with the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) on the final regulatory checks for its Air Operators Certificate (AOC), with the carrier due to commence operation with A320 aircraft.
