Bangkok Airways Plans 30 New Narrowbody Aircraft Order, and More
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Bangkok Airways Plans 30-Aircraft Fleet Renewal Amid Tourism Surge and Aging Fleet Concerns
Bangkok Airways is gearing up to order as many as 30 new narrowbody aircraft as part of a major fleet renewal and expansion initiative.
The Thai carrier plans to place orders with aircraft manufacturers Airbus, Boeing, or Embraer for at least 20 single-aisle jets in the first half of 2025, with options for approximately 10 more.
This strategic move aims to replace its aging fleet, some aircraft now reaching 20 years old, while accommodating increased tourism demand in Thailand.
Key Points
- Bangkok Airways aims to grow the fleet to at least 30 jets within 4-5 years through purchases and leases
- The current fleet consists of 25 aircraft, including Airbus A319s, A320s, and ATR 72-600s
- The airline has already seen a 14% increase in advanced bookings for Q2 2025, typically a low season
- Temporary capacity boost secured through wet leasing two Airbus narrowbodies from French operator Amelia for winter 2024/2025
- Bangkok Airways owns and operates Samui airport, which has runway limitations restricting aircraft types that can serve it
What It Means
Bangkok Airways' fleet renewal comes at a moment as Thailand anticipates a record 40 million visitors in 2025.
The carrier's unique position as Samui airport's owner provides competitive advantage in a high-value leisure market experiencing renewed interest.
This significant order will intensify competition between aircraft manufacturers eager to secure deals in the growing Southeast Asian aviation market.
