STRATEGIC FACTORS INFLUENCING THE SURVIVAL OF FLIGHT SCHOOLS IN THAILAND RESEARCHER
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Abstract
This study aimed to: 1) examine the current situation, problems, and challenges of aviation schools in Thailand; 2) identify and measure the strategic factors influencing the survival of aviation schools; 3) develop a strategic model to enhance the survival and sustainability of aviation schools; and 4) propose appropriate policy and practical guidelines for administrators and government agencies. A mixed-methods approach was employed. Qualitative data were collected through in-depth interviews with 15 experts in aviation and administrators of aviation schools, while quantitative data were collected from 300 respondents, including flight instructors, student pilots, and administrative staff at aviation schools. Descriptive statistics mean, standard deviation (S.D.), and percentage were used to analyze the descriptive data. Inferential analysis was performed using multiple regression analysis to test the influence of strategic variables on the survival of aviation schools.
The research findings revealed that:
According to Objective 1, aviation schools in Thailand face high operational costs, a shortage of internationally licensed flight instructors, strict safety standards, foreign competition, and challenges from digital technologies and changes in the aviation labor market.
For Objective 2, the strategic factors that significantly influence survival (p < 0.05) include strategic management, technology and innovation, industry collaboration, and quality of education. These factors together explain 76.5% of the variance in school survival.
Regarding Objective 3, the developed strategic model comprises five key dimensions: strategic management, human resource development, learning innovation and technology, international collaboration, and economic and environmental sustainability. The model demonstrated a good fit with empirical data (χ²/df = 1.86, GFI = 0.93, AGFI = 0.90, RMSEA = 0.042).
For Objective 4, the proposed policy guidelines include establishing a National Aviation School Development Center, promoting public–private investment, developing modern aviation curricula, and providing tax incentives to enhance international competitiveness.
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