Thailand is planning to expand its presence in the aircraft maintenance industry by developing Chiang Rai Airport (CEI) into a major Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) hub. This initiative, led by Airports of Thailand (AOT), aims to cater to the growing demand for MRO services, particularly from the Chinese market.
Land preparation for the project has begun, and the first hangar is expected to be completed by the end of 2025. Discussions are ongoing with Chinese aerospace company AVIC regarding the establishment of an MRO facility at the airport. With its proximity to southern China, the location is considered advantageous for servicing Chinese aircraft, which face limitations in conducting maintenance within China.
Although strategically positioned, the project is expected to take several years to reach full operational capacity. Estimates suggest that it may require up to five years before the facility becomes fully viable.
At present, Chiang Rai Airport has a single 3,000-metre runway and serves both domestic and international airlines, including China Eastern Airlines, Nok Air, Thai AirAsia, Thai Airways, Thai Lion Air, and Thai Vietjet Air.
(Source: Thaiger)
