Advance Aviation expands in North

Chai Nasylvanta, vice chairman of the small private jet operator, said yesterday the company recently took delivery of the first helicopter, which was set to serve clients in Phuket and its surrounding provinces.

The second one, a EC130 model, is due to arrive by year-end for deployment in the North, covering Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai.

The third helicopter, a EC155, produced by European aircraft maker Euro Copter, is scheduled for 2010. It can carry up to 12 passengers.

Advance Aviation has also established a joint venture with Euro Copter to build an aircraft maintenance centre in Thailand for Euro Copter aircraft and general small jets, performing work that used to be done in Singapore.

The Bt9 million helipad in Phuket targets well-heeled tourists and executives staying in luxury hotels there and on some famous islands such as Koh Yao in Phang Nga and Mai Thon Island.

The charges run about US$2,250 (Bt76,000) per hour.

From Bangkok, the company deals with more than 20 helipads and more than 100 destinations upcountry, including Hua Hin and Pattaya, which take about 45 minutes and 35 minutes respectively.

Last year, the company achieved its business goals despite the economic slowdown. The company gained a 80-per-cent market share for small aircraft. Most sales come from foreigners, especially film-makers.