A luxury seaplane service connecting Phuket with island destinations across the Andaman coast has completed its preliminary environmental study, bringing premium aerial access closer to operational reality. For Phuket property, the question is not just about faster transport. The detail worth understanding is how improved connectivity between luxury destinations affects buyer perception, rental demand and the way high-end travellers experience the region.
The final briefing for the Preliminary Environmental Assessment (PEA) report was held on 7 May at Ao Makham in Wichit, where Thai Seaplane Co Ltd presented findings from an 11-month study conducted by Kasetsart University’s Faculty of Environment. The session was attended by officials from Phuket Provincial Administrative Organisation (PPAO), district representatives, government agencies, private sector stakeholders and local residents.
What the project involves
Thai Seaplane Co Ltd, established in October 2023 with registered capital of B25 million, plans to invest more than B100 million during the initial development phase. The company intends to provide premium seaplane transport services targeting luxury and high-income travellers visiting Phuket and nearby destinations.
Planned routes include Phuket to Krabi, Koh Phi Phi, the Similan Islands, Koh Lipe and Koh Kradan, with all flights expected to take less than 90 minutes. The proposed temporary seaplane landing and takeoff point is located in Phuket Bay off Ao Makham on Phuket’s east coast.
Thai Seaplane CEO Kasinphoj Rodko said the project is intended to strengthen Phuket’s position as a world-class marine tourism hub while offering faster and more convenient connections across the Andaman coast.
The company’s first aircraft, registered HS-TSP, is already stationed in Phuket. Long-term plans call for expanding the fleet to 30 aircraft within five years if approvals are granted.
How this fits the wider Phuket plan
According to project details presented at the meeting, the development aligns with Phuket’s Provincial Development Plan 2023-2027 and supports wider ambitions to promote Phuket as a leading maritime tourism, medical and wellness destination.
Mueang District Palad Apichat Chantrawong, who presided over the meeting, said Phuket’s tourism industry already had strong foundations through its beaches, luxury resorts, premium services and growing wellness sector.
“The seaplane project is another important piece of infrastructure that will increase travel options, help reduce congestion at Phuket International Airport and support the tourism economy,” he said.
The project is currently undergoing legal procedures and environmental approval processes required under regulations issued by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment in 2023.
What this could mean for Phuket property
Premium connectivity creates a different experience for buyers and renters who value access to multiple luxury destinations within the same trip. A seaplane service connecting Phuket directly with Phi Phi, the Similans, Lipe and Krabi changes how high-end travellers plan time and movement across the Andaman coast.
For villa owners targeting luxury rental demand, faster connections to other resort areas may increase the attractiveness of Phuket as a base. It also shifts the practical radius of what counts as accessible from Phuket, potentially increasing demand for properties positioned near the seaplane hub or within convenient reach of Ao Makham.
The broader implication is that infrastructure designed for premium travellers tends to reinforce Phuket’s positioning within the high-end segment of the Thailand property market. Projects like this signal confidence in sustained luxury demand and long-term investment in the island’s upscale tourism economy.
Environmental and operational considerations
The environmental study examined engineering feasibility, environmental impacts, natural resources and potential effects on the quality of life of nearby communities. Thai Seaplane first unveiled plans for the project last year under a proposed government-private sector “Sandbox” initiative designed to test environmental impacts before commercial operations begin.
Previous company statements explained that the aircraft are designed to minimise marine impacts, with engines and propellers mounted above the fuselage to avoid contact with marine life and coral reefs. The company has also stated plans to eventually transition to sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and recycled oils to reduce carbon emissions.
Thai Seaplane has also said the project could support emergency medical transport operations and create aviation-related jobs and training opportunities for local residents.
What remains unclear
The project has completed its preliminary environmental assessment, but final approvals from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment are still required. The timeline for commercial operations has not been confirmed.
It is also not yet clear how pricing, frequency and capacity will compare with existing ferry, speedboat and helicopter services. The company has described the service as targeting luxury and high-income travellers, but operational details and fare structures have not been disclosed.
Whether the service reaches the planned fleet size of 30 aircraft within five years will depend on regulatory approvals, demand and the company’s ability to scale operations profitably.
Frequently Asked Questions
What routes will the Phuket seaplane service cover?
Planned routes include Phuket to Krabi, Koh Phi Phi, the Similan Islands, Koh Lipe and Koh Kradan, with all flights expected to take less than 90 minutes. The proposed base is at Ao Makham in Wichit on Phuket’s east coast.
When will the seaplane service start operating?
The project has completed its preliminary environmental assessment but still requires final regulatory approvals. No confirmed timeline for commercial operations has been announced.
Could this affect Phuket property demand?
Premium connectivity to other Andaman destinations may increase Phuket’s attractiveness as a base for luxury travellers. This could support rental demand for high-end villas, particularly those near the seaplane hub or within convenient reach of Ao Makham.
How does this align with Phuket’s development plans?
According to project presentations, the seaplane service aligns with Phuket’s Provincial Development Plan 2023-2027 and supports wider ambitions to position Phuket as a leading maritime tourism, medical and wellness destination.
What environmental measures are included in the project?
The company states that aircraft engines and propellers are mounted above the fuselage to avoid contact with marine life and coral reefs. Plans also include eventual transition to sustainable aviation fuel and recycled oils to reduce carbon emissions.
Sources
- The Phuket News — Phuket pushes ahead with luxury seaplane project — link
