Thai Companies Try to Stimulate Interest in Flying.

Byline: Charoen Kittikanya

Aug. 3--If you're not mentally sharp, good at mathematics and physical sciences, as well as physically perfect, it's unlikely you'll be accepted for training by a flying school.

Even if you pass that stage, the cost of qualifying for a private pilot's licence may be prohibitive: as much as 220,000 baht for a 20-week course and 1.3 million for a commercial licence that entails one year's study.

Applicants for a private licence must have a good command of written and spoken English, with an aptitude for mathematics and physical sciences. They must meet the medical requirements of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO).

Assuming you measure up, there are several introductory courses available in Thailand. Among the operators is General Aviation Co, a member of the Loxley group. Two years ago, in co-operation with the Bang Pra Flying Club, which has its own planes for members' use, it offered a one-day introductory flying course at 6,600 baht.

However, as the response was disappointing, General Aviation teamed up with the Civil Aviation Training Centre, a state enterprise unit of the Transport and Communications Ministry.

Together they launched a new two-day "We Love Flying" session, now available at the Hua Hin training unit of the Civil Aviation Training Centre, at a price of 9,900 baht.