They will be joined by aviation and tourism experts from around the world who are convening in Bangkok at the event organised as part of the celebration of Star Alliance's 10th anniversary.

Thai Airways International, a founding member of Star Alliance, and Asia News Network are co-hosts.

The forum, taking place at Shangri-la Hotel, will open with addresses by Jaan Albrecht, CEO of Star Alliance on the future of air travel; and Francesco Frangialli, secretary-general of the World Tourism Organisation, on future opportunities and threats to global tourism.

Sasern will deliver the keynote address on the aviation session. The speakers in this session will include Zhang Hexiang of China's Aviation Industry Development Research Centre, Pradeep Panicker of GMR Group from India, Dr Michael Kerkloh from Munich Airport and Andrew Herdman from Association of Asia-Pacific Airlines.

Tourism Authority of Thailand Governor Phornsiri Manoharn will make a special luncheon remark.

Prime Minister Gen Surayud, who had just returned from an official trip to India, will then deliver a keynote address on "Thailand and Asia's

Economic Dynamism."

The following session will be unique with five speakers representing two aircraft manufacturers - Boeing and Airbus - and three major engine makers - Rolls Royce, GE Aviation and Pratt and Whitney. They will divulge on aviation, aircraft and engines of tomorrow.

The last session will be on the future of tourism with speakers including Jose Tazon, CEO of Amadeus, Ho Kwon Ping of Banyan Tree Group, Peter de Jong of PATAm and Peter Harbision from Centre for Asia Pacific Aviation.