The Thai government has confirmed that construction on the 290-billion baht (US$8.82 billion) U-Tapao aviation city will begin early this year.
According to government Spokesperson Tipanan Sirichana said in a statement that the project will generate 15,600 additional jobs in the first five years and drive growth in Thailand’s aviation industry.
The investment plan is slated to transform U-Tapao airport into a new international airport linked up with Don Muang Airport and the kingdom’s main Suvarnabhumi Airport.
Tipanan added that the public-private project located in Thailand’s industrial east will cover 1,040 hectares and is aimed at attracting tourists.
A government website showed that the project, known as “Eastern Aviation City,” will also include a free trade zone for cargo, an aviation training center and aircraft maintenance, repair and overhaul facilities.
U-Tapao lies approximately 90 miles (140 km) southeast of Bangkok, south of Sukhumvit Road at Km. 189, near Sattahip on the Gulf of Thailand, about a 45-minute drive from Pattaya (Thailand’s most popular beach resort).
Source – Pattaya Mail