Thai Airways expansion held back by aircraft delivery delays: Head of scheduling
Thai Airways head of scheduling Thiti Arayakhun, speaking at Routes Asia 2025, stated (25-Mar-2025) delayed aircraft deliveries are a major challenge and the airline "cannot get the aircraft in time". Mr Arayakhun said 2025 "is the year to increase flights" but Thai Airways has not received the necessary widebody aircraft. He said it is "very challenging" to plan the carrier's network if aircraft are not delivered as expected. Mr Arayakhun said the airline's expansion is also limited by lack of slot capacity at certain airports, stating: "We need this to expand our network".
Background ✨
Thai Airways aimed to expand its fleet from 79 to 90 aircraft by the end of 2025, targeting an increase through lease deals for widebody aircraft such as Boeing 777-300ERs or A350s1. The airline secured leases for five A321neo aircraft, with deliveries beginning in 2025, and planned additional deliveries in 2026 and 20272. Supply chain issues and delays have impacted aircraft deliveries, leading to operational disruptions, as noted by CEO Chai Eamsiri3.