A study looking into the feasibility of a 15-billion-baht joint venture between Thai Airways International (THAI) and Airbus to develop a new maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) facility is likely to conclude its findings later this year.
THAI's acting president Usanee Sangsingkeo said the results would be submitted to the authorities concerned for approval of the venture, which falls under the public-private partnership (PPP) programme.
The study involves evaluation of the planned facility, known as the TG MRO Complex Development at U-Tapao International Airport, worth about 15 billion baht.
The national flag-carrier signed an initial cooperation agreement with Airbus to study the MRO facility in March this year. The MRO is designed to serve as an aircraft maintenance centre for the Asia-Pacific region and would open in 2021.
Ms Usanee said THAI had been assured of the Civil Aviation Training Centre's cooperation in developing and training staff for the project. Ronnachai Wongchaoum, chief of the aircraft repair and maintenance project, said the MRO facility would cover a 500-rai area at U-Tapao airport in Rayong.
He said the study was expected to be complete in October and an official investment agreement between THAI and Airbus could be signed in March next year. Mr Ronnachai said a holding company would be set up to undertake the project with THAI holding a share of no more than 51% in the MRO centre.
The facility, to be equipped with smart hangers, digital technology to analyse aircraft maintenance information and advanced aircraft testing technology, will have the capacity to service between 50-60 aircraft a year. It is expected to generate an annual income of 1.2 billion baht and should break even in three years.
"The facility is planned to serve new generation aircraft such as the Airbus A380. This aircraft is expected to require major maintenance services in 5-6 years," Mr Ronnachai said.