Seaplane Services Set to Boost Tourism in Kanchanaburi
Kanchanaburi, Thailand — In a groundbreaking move to enhance tourism, Siam Seaplane is set to launch seaplane services in Kanchanaburi in 2025. This project, supported by key government agencies and private sector partners, aims to open up access to the region’s picturesque landscape, making Kanchanaburi’s stunning yet less-visited destinations more accessible to visitors. Travelers will soon be able to take amphibious seaplane flights from both airports and private airfields in Bangkok’s vicinity, and land on the water surface of the Srinakarin Dam in less than an hour. This enhances the transportation options to Kanchanaburi, by adding a faster and scenic alternative.
Kanchanaburi Province is known for its national parks, which include dense jungles, waterfalls, and limestone caves. Seven-tiered waterfalls can be found at the Srinakarin Dam National Park, while Erawan National Park has aqua-blue falls. This milestone initiative seeks to transform Thailand's tourism landscape and unlock its stunning dam and waterfront destinations for accessibility with the seaplane. Connecting unconnected land through the seaplane spurs a great opportunity for tourism in the area.
Beyond tourism, seaplanes can serve other important purposes, such as medical evacuation, air ambulance, search and rescue, airfreight, aerial photography, off-shore mapping, and off-shore operations, all while remaining an environmentally friendly and sustainable choice. As the demand for sustainable tourism grows, seaplanes will likely play an increasingly important role in this field. Seaplanes produce less noise and pollution than cars or buses, which helps protect wildlife and the natural environment. Seaplanes can play a valuable role in promoting sustainable tourism. By minimizing the environmental impact and granting access to remote areas, seaplanes can help guarantee that both tourists and the local community can continue to enjoy these areas for decades to come.
A floating medical clinic and nursing home project by the Public Health Department aims to assist injured tourists from water activities and assure their safety when visiting Srinakarin Dam. Traditionally, medical evacuations from the Dam to the hospital were conducted using jet ski rescues and air evacuation via helicopters, with floating docks equipped with helicopter landing pads. With the introduction of amphibious seaplanes, the evacuation process can now be expedited and extended to more accessible areas. Unlike helicopters, seaplanes do not require landing pads, and their floats keep the aircraft above the water surface, minimizing environmental impact. Optimal areas for landing and take-off are identified in advance, based on thorough assessments, adhering to the highest safety standards, including national and international laws and best practices for water aerodromes. Throughout its operations, Siam Seaplane ensures the highest level of professionalism, safety, security, and comfort.
A central partnership in this project is also with the award-winning Pla2 Villa and the stunning Z9 Resort. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking flights over the scenic Srinakarin Dam and immerse themselves in the tranquil beauty of the surrounding landscapes. Pla2 Villa and Z9 Resort are renowned for their luxurious floating villas and exceptional service. Guests will experience unparalleled comfort and convenience, with access to an array of thrilling water sports such as jetboarding on electric surfboard, wakesurfing, jet skiing, boat excursions, and waterfall trips, all available right at their doorstep. Collaborating with Siam Seaplane has lifted our resort’s offerings to celestial realms. The grace and convenience of seaplane transfers bestow an air of exclusivity that our guests will enthusiastically celebrate. It harmonizes beautifully with the tranquil and luxurious service of Z9 Resorts.
Siam Seaplane has been leading seaplane developments in Thailand since its inception in 2019, working closely with relevant authorities and commercial partners, primarily luxury resorts, destination management companies, and marinas. A paramount aspect is a relentless focus on international best practices, safety, and sustainability, including ensuring virtually no negative environmental impact and incorporating future-proof technologies such as fully electric aircraft in the years to come.
In a collaborative effort to enhance tourism in Kanchanaburi, the private sector, including hotel and resort representatives, along with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), have expressed strong support for the introduction of seaplane services in the region. This initiative aligns with the Thai government’s 2024 travel policy to promote ‘beautiful destinations that are hard to get to’.
Kanchanaburi local authorities including the Sri Swasdi District Chief, the District Public Health officer, the Secretary to the Governor of Kanchanaburi, the Provincial Tourism and Sports officer, the Provincial Labor officer, the Provincial Employment Officer, the Head of the Provincial Office, the Provincial Labor Official, and the Skill Development Institute Director, have also voiced their approval, recognizing the potential economic benefits for villages and communities within Kanchanaburi. The introduction of seaplane services is expected to offer unique travel experiences, create monetizing opportunities and to increase value to the province’s tourist attractions.
Siam Seaplane, at the forefront of this initiative, aims to collaborate with all sectors to ensure the sustainability of the project. The company aims to enhance Kanchanaburi’s appeal as a tourist destination while fostering economic growth and preserving the natural environment. The Kanchanaburi branch of TAT has also committed to actively publicizing and communicating the benefits of seaplane services to the local community. In addition, various public sector regulators, including the Marine Department and the Department of Environment, have shown their support, provided that service providers adhere to established regulations.