Thailand – The Supreme Administrative Court has overturned a Ministry of Labour announcement that temporarily allowed foreign pilots to operate domestic flights in Thailand, ruling that the exemption unlawfully restricted career opportunities for Thai pilots. The decision immediately revokes the special permission issued on 13 December 2024, marking a significant development for the country’s aviation labour policy.
- The ruling follows a case brought by the Thai Pilots Association, which argued that domestic flight operations should remain reserved for Thai pilots under national labour regulations.
- The Ministry of Labour’s exemption had enabled Thai Viet Jet to operate domestic flights using foreign pilots under a wet-lease arrangement, citing aircraft shortages. The permission was originally set to expire on 31 January, but has now been nullified.
- The judgement sets a legal precedent preventing airlines from using fleet shortages as grounds to replace Thai pilots with foreign crews on domestic routes.
- The Thai Pilots Association notes that more than 1,000 licensed Thai pilots are currently seeking employment, and expects hiring to improve as Thai carriers proceed with long-term fleet expansion despite short-term delivery delays.
- The association urged continued government action to protect pilot career pathways, including eliminating “pay-to-fly” schemes that require pilots to pay for job placement opportunities.
Statements
- “This ruling sets a new standard for Thai aviation and future governments.” – Teerawat Angkasakulkiat, President, Thai Pilots Association
Source: Thai Pilots Association
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