Cargo aircraft life extended

BANGKOK, June 7 (TNA) - The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) extends cargo aircraft’s life to 22 years to support logistic businesses. CAAT director Chula Sukmanop said the civil aviation committee approved extension of cargo airplane age from 18 to 22 years, so air cargo operators can better serve air cargo growth of at least three per cent per year. Currently, Thailand transports 2.9 million tonnes of air freight each year and is likely to increase. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) expects global air cargo will grow by three per cent and will double in Asia in the next 20 years. The committee also approved the 20 –year Master Plan for airport development. Under the plan, the Airports of Thailand Co, Ltd will construct new airports in the northern province of Lamphun and the southern province of Phanga-nga. Fifteen passenger terminals will be upgraded out of all 28 airports. (TNA)