Deputy Transport Minister Thaworn Senneam on Monday backed extending the sale of local arts and crafts products on flights and in airports across the country.
The deputy minister cited the success that Thai Airways has had selling goods produced under the One Tambon One Product (Otop) initiative which made 273 million baht over three years.
"The sale of Otop products on Thai Airways has resulted in a better economy for artisans in these villages," Mr Thaworn said in reference to craft works created by villagers from Ban Huay Wai in Kanchanaburi province.
The plan is part of the government initiative to promote Otop goods by making them available on Thai Airways flights, and at airports and restaurants.
Mr Thaworn told media he has ordered 28 airports across the country to provide space for Otop products.
"Travellers at airports and on flights are potential Otop customers. THAI caters to around 24 million passengers each year while 28 rural airports will accommodate 50 million passengers in the near future," Mr Thaworn added.
At the moment, many rural airports are already selling local goods made by villagers in nearby communities, he said, citing the success of homespun textiles being sold at Khon Kaen airport and the handicrafts offered at Krabi airport.
"Sales [of their goods] at airports will yield large sums for villagers. Anyone who would like to sell their products at airports can ask local administrators for a subsidy and advice about meeting airport standards," he said.