APATS 2026 to Open with Thai Airways COO on Aviation's Next Transformation

Captain Chawan Ratanawaraha, Chief Operations Officer and Chief Transformation Officer of Thai Airways International, will deliver the opening keynote at APATS 2026, bringing a unique perspective on how one of Asia's leading airlines is navigating operational transformation while maintaining safety, service quality and operational resilience.

As the Asia Pacific aviation sector continues to face growing demand, fleet expansion and workforce pressures, Captain Chawan's keynote will explore the operational realities behind leading change at a major international carrier.

Captain Chawan combines decades of frontline flying experience with responsibility for some of Thai Airways' most significant operational functions. An Airbus A380 captain and technical pilot, he played a central role in the airline's A380 entry into service, leading training programmes and supporting the introduction of the aircraft into commercial operations.

For APATS delegates, Captain Chawan's keynote offers an opportunity to hear how an airline balances operational excellence with strategic change at a time when the industry is embracing new technologies, evolving training methodologies and increasing operational complexity.

Opening APATS 2026, Captain Chawan will set the tone for three days of discussion focused on the future of aviation training, operational readiness and the skills needed to support a rapidly evolving industry.