Thailand's first commercial seaplane operator plans to launch flights connecting Phuket with destinations across the Andaman region by September, targeting high-end tourists seeking faster access to resort islands and coastal destinations.
Kasinpoj Rodkho, chief executive of Thai Seaplane, said the company aimed to strengthen luxury tourism infrastructure while improving regional connectivity between Phuket, Krabi and nearby islands.
He said the company, created on Oct 3, 2023 with registered capital of 25 million baht, initially allocated more than 100 million baht for investment during its first three years, covering aircraft procurement, infrastructure and personnel development.
Total investment has since risen to about 300 million baht, while the fleet is expected to expand from one aircraft to five within three years. Commercial flights will initially operate within the Andaman region on routes lasting no more than 1 hour 30 minutes, including Phuket–Krabi, Phuket–Phi Phi Island, Krabi–Phi Phi Island, Phuket–Similan Islands and Phuket–Lipe Island.
Initial operations will connect Phuket airport, Cape Panwa and Krabi airport, reducing travel time between Phuket and Krabi to about 20 minutes, compared with roughly three hours by road. One-way fares between Phuket and Krabi will cost no more than US$150, or about 4,849 baht per seat.
"Our goal is to elevate the tourism experience by reducing travel time and creating seamless connections between major destinations and island attractions," Mr Kasinpoj said. He added the service was designed mainly for foreign luxury travellers, who are expected to account for around 70% of passengers, with Thai travellers making up the rest.
The company has spent six years preparing the project, including specialised pilot training in the United States and Germany. Its first aircraft, an orange seaplane named PP, has been imported and is stationed in Krabi alongside completed docking facilities for passenger transfers.
Mr Kasinpoj said the project had gained momentum after the Civil Aviation Authority introduced regulations governing seaplane operations and temporary water landing facilities in 2025.
