Thailand Takes Flight: AU Launches Global Aviation Education Partnership

At the heart of the agreement is a commitment to integrate world-class aviation education, technological R&D, and real-world implementation. Together, the institutions will craft a vertically integrated aviation ecosystem—from talent development to industry acceleration—aligned with Thailand’s “Thailand 4.0” innovation roadmap.

Flight Training Meets Global Opportunity
Hanyuan International Airline, an aviation leader in China, brings its successful “license + degree + career migration” model—backed by its FAA Part 141-certified NS Flight Academy in the U.S.—to the table. Through this collaboration, students at AU will have access to dual-degree programs with Embry-Riddle, known globally as the “Harvard of the Sky,” and Florida Memorial University, ranked second in U.S. aviation education.

Students from Southeast Asia can now begin their academic journey in Thailand, then progress to FAA-certified flight training in the U.S., and complete internationally recognized degrees. Most importantly, through Hanyuan’s airline network, graduates gain a fast track to career placement with global carriers such as Emirates and Hong Kong Airlines.

Aviation Tourism and the Low-Altitude Economy
Beyond pilot training, the partnership opens a new frontier in aerial tourism. Hanyuan’s “Flight Dream Camp” and premium flight programs will launch in Thailand, leveraging the kingdom’s natural beauty for scenic routes, flying clubs, and aviation-themed luxury travel—including golf, yachting, and high-end hospitality.

In the rapidly expanding low-altitude economy, the collaboration will advance eVTOL (electric vertical takeoff and landing) and drone innovation. Infrastructure development is already underway, including fixed-base operators (FBOs), drone training academies, and digital service platforms. NS Flight Academy’s drone curriculum will debut at AU, with scholarships earmarked for veterans, first responders, and emergency personnel.

Voices from the Cockpit of Change
“This partnership marks a strategic milestone in our globalization,” said Wu Dayuan, CEO of Hanyuan International Airline. “We’re delivering end-to-end ‘flight-degree-career’ solutions for Southeast Asia, while commercializing Thailand’s low-altitude economy.”

Dr. Gao Li, Assistant Vice President of AU, added: “This accelerates Thailand’s aviation industry globalization, directly supporting our ‘Thailand 4.0’ vision with technology and talent pipelines.”

The Southeast Asia Aviation Innovation Center
Looking ahead, the partners will co-establish the Southeast Asia Aviation Innovation Center in Bangkok by 2026. This hub will focus on three pillars: aviation R&D, cross-regional talent exchange, and commercialization incubation—with future growth in drone logistics, digital aviation services, and media content production.

As the world looks skyward, this landmark initiative reaffirms Thailand’s role as a dynamic player in the region’s aviation landscape—where education, technology, and tourism converge to lift Southeast Asia into a smarter, safer, and more sustainable future.