On May 28, 2025, Air Chief Marshal Manat Chavanaprayoon, Director General of the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT), welcomed Mr. Tadakazu Ito, Director of International Regulatory Pacific of United Airlines, for a high-level discussion on the potential launch of direct flights (Non-Stop flight) between Thailand and the United States by United Airlines.
This meeting underscored CAAT’s proactive role in facilitating and promoting international air connectivity, particularly with long-haul markets such as the United States. The initiative aligns with Thailand’s broader strategy to enhance international travel options, drive tourism and investment, and strengthen the country’s position as a regional aviation hub.
In addition to the proposed direct flight route, both parties discussed the possibility of establishing a U.S. “Pre-Clearance Check” system at a Thai airport. If implemented, this system would allow passengers traveling from Thailand to complete U.S. immigration procedures before departure, enabling them to enter the United States seamlessly upon arrival without the need for further inspection.
CAAT reaffirmed its commitment to supporting all necessary processes to facilitate this initiative, ensuring regulatory readiness and international collaboration to elevate Thailand’s aviation sector to global standards.
