Aeronautical Radio of Thailand Ltd. (AEROTHAI) is advancing its air traffic management capabilities to align with national policies aimed at transforming Thailand into a premier regional aviation hub. The agency is rolling out plans to introduce Digital Tower technology at major gateways, expanding Green Air Traffic Management (Green ATM) practices, and optimizing operations ahead of the upcoming high season.
Regarding the Digital Tower project, procurement and supplier selection are expected to conclude next year. Thailand has adopted a hybrid model for implementation at Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang International Airports. The system utilizes high-performance digital cameras featuring pan-tilt-zoom capabilities, night mode, and heavy rain detection. These tools provide air traffic controllers with clear visual tracking of aircraft and ground operations even during severe weather conditions, significantly reinforcing flight safety.
AEROTHAI is also accelerating two key operational systems: the Approach Spacing Tool (AST) and integrated weather radar displays. The AST software, which assists controllers in sequencing arrivals and departures according to regulatory separation standards, has been installed and is undergoing simulator testing and safety assessments. Simultaneously, AEROTHAI plans to integrate real-time weather radar imagery directly onto air traffic control screens, enabling controllers to proactively guide pilots around adverse weather conditions rather than relying solely on airborne radar requests.
On environmental sustainability, AEROTHAI remains the only Air Navigation Service Provider (ANSP) in the Asia-Pacific region certified at Green ATM Level 2, with active applications submitted for Levels 3 through 5. The agency achieves emission reductions by redesigning flight paths to shorten distances and promoting optimized flight procedures, such as continuous climb and continuous descent operations instead of stepped approaches.
A notable example includes the Lima 770 (L770) route connecting Nan to point SAGA, developed in collaboration with China and Lao PDR. The route reduces flight distance by approximately 35 nautical miles (around 60 kilometers), cutting fuel consumption by roughly 5% and saving approximately 600 kilograms of carbon dioxide per flight. AEROTHAI emphasizes that proactive air traffic flow management to minimize holding patterns provides immediate emission cuts while Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) remains cost-prohibitive for many airlines.
Regarding preparations for the five-month aviation high season running from November through March, AEROTHAI projects a 1% to 2% increase in air traffic compared to the previous year, translating to around 2,800 flights per day. The agency confirmed full operational readiness to handle this volume, alongside specialized flight planning for major international delegations, including attendees of the 2026 IMF-World Bank Annual Meetings.
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