Enhancing Hands-On Learning to Develop Aviation Talent and Support Thailand’s Vision of Becoming an Aviation Hub
SKY ICT has partnered with Kasetsart University to launch the “SKY Aviation Lab,” a smart airport laboratory designed to enhance students’ learning through hands-on experience with real airport systems. A key highlight of the facility is the Passenger Journey Simulation Zone, which recreates the complete passenger process—from check-in to boarding. The initiative aims to develop future aviation professionals and strengthen Thailand’s aviation workforce while supporting the country’s ambition to become a regional Aviation Hub.
Mr. Sithidej Mayalarp, Chief Executive Officer of SKY ICT Public Company Limited, said that following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between SKY ICT and Kasetsart University to collaborate on research, innovation, and aviation workforce development, the company has officially launched the SKY Aviation Lab.
The lab aims to provide students with practical learning opportunities using technologies and operational scenarios similar to those used in real airports. This initiative helps prepare the next generation of professionals to enter the aviation industry with practical skills while also supporting an academic environment conducive to research and innovation that will contribute to the long-term development of Thailand’s aviation industry.
Passenger Journey Simulation Zone
The SKY Aviation Lab has been designed as a Passenger Journey Simulation Zone, allowing undergraduate and graduate students to learn and practice using systems that replicate real airport operations. The lab features advanced technologies covering the entire passenger journey—from check-in to boarding.
Key systems include:
- Check-In and Boarding System (CUPPS) – A Common Use Passenger Processing System that connects passenger data with airline databases and baggage weighing systems, enabling efficient passenger processing before boarding.
- Self Check-In Kiosk (CUSS) – Automated kiosks that allow passengers to check in and print boarding passes independently, helping to speed up airport processes.
- Self Bag Drop – A self-service baggage drop system that reduces waiting times at airline counters.
- Self Boarding Gate – An automated boarding gate using facial recognition technology, allowing passengers to verify their identity and proceed directly to boarding without repeated document checks by staff.
In addition, the laboratory features demonstration videos showing the complete passenger journey from check-in to boarding, as well as the Baggage Reconciliation System (BRS), which tracks and matches baggage with passengers. These tools help students understand airport data management and passenger flow processes within airport operations.
Dr. Damrong Sriphraram, Acting President of Kasetsart University, expressed his appreciation for SKY ICT’s support in establishing the SKY Aviation Lab. He noted that the lab significantly strengthens the university’s learning ecosystem for both undergraduate and graduate students by integrating real airport technologies into simulated learning environments.
This initiative helps enhance academic programs and develop high-skilled aviation talent, which will play an important role in driving Thailand toward becoming a regional aviation hub.
Dr. Nawatat Kongsamut, Head of the Department of Aerospace Engineering, Faculty of Engineering at Kasetsart University, added that the SKY Aviation Lab is an important educational tool that allows students to clearly understand how aviation systems are interconnected.
Students will gain insights into both front-end passenger management systems and back-end operational systems, including APPS, AODB, and BRS. He emphasized that data-driven decision-making using Big Data is now a core component of the aviation industry and is essential for improving airport efficiency to meet international standards.
The lab will also help students develop analytical thinking and strategic decision-making skills, preparing them for careers in the aviation industry immediately after graduation.
The launch event also featured a panel discussion titled “Thailand’s Aviation Industry Readiness Toward Becoming an Aviation Hub.”
Distinguished speakers included Air Chief Marshal Manat Chavanaprayoon, Director General of the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT), and Mr.Sirote Duangrat, Executive Vice President (Business Development and Marketing) of Airports of Thailand Public Company Limited (AOT).
The discussion shared perspectives on airport management and strategies to support the increasing number of air travelers, reinforcing Thailand’s goal of becoming a regional aviation hub.
About SKY ICT
SKY ICT Public Company Limited develops and delivers Aviation Technology as a Service (Aviation Tech as a Service) across various airport-related projects. The company supports government initiatives and infrastructure development aimed at strengthening Thailand’s aviation industry and advancing the country’s ambition to become an Aviation Hub.
Currently, SKY ICT provides aviation technology systems and services including the Common Use Passenger Processing System (CUPPS), which has been deployed across 13 airports nationwide.
The company is also responsible for implementing the Advance Passenger Processing System (APPS) and developing platforms that support travel and tourism services for international visitors to Thailand.
As a full-service IT provider, SKY ICT delivers comprehensive IT solutions tailored to business needs, offering a wide range of products and services while ensuring reliability and professionalism for its clients.
