VZCZCXYZ0013
RR RUEHWEB
DE RUEHBK #2811 1380752
ZNR UUUUU ZZH
R 180752Z MAY 07
FM AMEMBASSY BANGKOK
TO RUEHC/SECSTATE WASHDC 7053
RUEHGP/AMEMBASSY SINGAPORE 3635
UNCLAS BANGKOK 002811
SIPDIS
SIPDIS
SINGAPORE FOR FAA REP
E.O. 12958:N/A
TAGS: ECON EAIR TH
SUBJECT: THAILAND CIVAIR DEMARCHE RESPONSE
REF: STATE 64124
1. On May 16, Econoff met with Department of Civil Aviation (DCA)
Director General Chaisak Angkawuan and delivered letter and talking
points as requested in reftel. On May 17, Commercial Counselor met
with Ministry of Transportation Permanent Secretary Chaisawasd
Kittitorntaibon and delivered the same information. DCA officials
promised cooperation with the FAA reassessment and expressed hope it
would result in a favorable outcome. The officials said they were
aware of the issues of concern from viewing FAA's website. However,
DG Chaisak requested that the FAA provide more detail on specific
concerns prior to the reassessment.
2. DG Chaisak expressed concern regarding the issue of the legal
and regulatory environment, noting that a draft Air Navigation Act
has been in the works for several years. The RTG's legal advisors
in the Council of State have reviewed the Act and passed it to the
Cabinet for approval. The National Legislative Assembly will have
final say on whether to enact the Act.
BOYCE