Thailand to construct USD 9b aviation city in 2023

Bangkok : Thailand will begin construction of the THB 290 billion (USD 8.82 billion) U-Tapao aviation city early in 2023, reports said citing a government spokesperson on January 27.

The project will generate 15,600 additional jobs in the first five years and drive growth in Thailand's aviation industry, Tipanan Sirichana said, according to reports.

The investment plan is slated to turn the Vietnam-war era U-Tapao airport into a new international airport linked up with a budget terminal, Don Muang airport, and the country's main Suvarnabhumi Airport.

The public-private project located in Thailand's industrial east will cover 1,040 hectares (2,570 acres) and is aimed at attracting tourists, said Tipanan.

The project named "Eastern Aviation City" will also include a free trade zone for cargo, an aviation training centre and aircraft maintenance, repair and overhaul facilities, a government website shows.