BANGKOK, 30 March 2015 – The Ministry of Transport has decided to establish two committees to solve problems in the Department of Civil Aviation and to handle impacts from the international aviation regulator’s concerns over Thailand’s safety standards.
Following the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO)’s voicing of concerns over the safety standards of the Thai aviation industry based on its previous examinations, Transport Minister ACM Prajin Juntong stated that Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha has designated the matter as a national issue. He pointed out that appropriate actions need to be taken in a timely manner otherwise the nation’s economy and tourism could be damaged.
Therefore, the Transport Ministry has resolved to set up two working committees, one of which is to oversee the tackling of the problem at its root cause, particularly the restructuring of the Department of Civil Aviation, employment of more qualified specialists, increasing of budgets and amendment of laws. Chaired by Minister Prajin, the committee will convene on a weekly basis to follow up on the progress made and will submit a report to the ICAO every two weeks.
The other committee will be responsible for mitigating the effects of the ICAO’s downgrade of Thailand’s safety rating. It will coordinate with all sectors in creating an understanding with the international community concerning Thailand’s commitment to improving its air safety standards.
The setting up of the two committees is due to be proposed to the Prime Minister for approval within 45-60 days. The Ministry of Transport has expressed confidence that the issue surrounding aviation safety will be resolved within 6-8 months.
The ICAO’s safety concerns have prompted Japan as well as China and South Korea to issue a ban on all charter flights from Thailand. Last week, the Transport Ministry already dispatched officials to clarify the situation to the Japan Civil Aviation Bureau. More clarifications are to be made to other countries, including China, South Korea, Australia and Germany.
