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Thai court revokes government permission allowing foreign pilots to operate domestic flights
November 21st 2025
The Supreme Administrative Court of Thailand has overturned an announcement by the Ministry of Labour that allowed foreign pilots to work temporarily on domestic routes in Thailand, The Bangkok Post reports. Read More » The ministry’s announcement from December last year gave special, temporary permission for Thai VietJet to use foreign pilots on domestic flights after the airline wet-leased two aircraft last year, citing a shortage of planes to meet demand. Although this special permission will end on January 31, 2026, the Thai Pilots Association, which took the case to the court, has voiced concern that other airlines could use the same excuse, lack of aircraft, to lease planes for local routes under the same conditions, and without the need to employ Thai pilots. The court stated in its ruling that although the Minister of Labour has the authority to announce exemptions on jobs for foreigners, doing so is only allowed in special cases involving the protection of the nation’s security and economy, or preventing a disaster. The minister’s decision must not impact national security, local career opportunities, promotion of Thai local wisdom, or the need for foreign labour in the nation’s development, noted the court. Teerawat Angkasakulkiat, president of the Thai Pilots Association, said this ruling sets a new standard for Thai aviation and future governments. According to the association, than 1,000 licensed pilots are awaiting jobs in the Thai market. The association hopes the government will continue to support pilots’ careers, as Thailand aspires to become a regional aviation hub. Teerawat said support should include eradicating the “pay-to-fly” scheme, an employment programme under which airlines collect fees from pilots to be selected for a job, which can lead to unfair recruitment.
