KAI, TAI sign MOU for T-50TH trainer jets maintenance

[Courtesy of Korea Aerospace Industries Co.]

South Korea’s sole aircraft manufacturer Korea Aerospace Industries Co. (KAI) announced on Monday that it signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Thai Aviation Industries (TAI). The agreement with the Thai state-owned company, which specializes in aircraft support, was signed on August 16th, 2024, and covers the maintenance of T-50TH trainer jets.

KAI has exported 14 T-50TH trainer jets to Thailand to date, and TAI handles maintenance services for the planes with KAI’s technology support.

The MOU aims to establish a stable support system for the T-50TH aircraft operated by the Royal Thai Air Force and to strengthen the strategic partnership between the aviation industries of both countries. Under the agreement, both parties will work together to enhance the operational availability of the T-50TH and improve their maintenance capabilities.

KAI is also preparing to enter a Performance-Based Logistics (PBL) contract with the Royal Thai Air Force and TAI to ensure the T-50TH can be operated reliably throughout its entire life cycle.