Lao Central Airlines (LCA) is turning to Thailand to get the neighbouring country's first privately owned commercial carrier off the ground including its management team and cockpit and cabin crews.
A yellow bodhi leaf forms a key part of the Lao Central Airlines logo.
The budget airline's launch, originally planned for this past January, finally seems imminent, although an official date has not been announced.
Originally named Phongsavanh Airlines, LCA is looking for Thai pilots and engineers proficient with Boeing 737-400s, a single-aisle jetliner that will be used for the maiden Vientiane-Bangkok flight.
Owned by the Phongsavanh Group, which runs a commercial bank by the same name in the socialist state, the carrier is also sourcing female cabin attendants and experienced marketing personnel from Thailand.
Industry analysts in Bangkok said the training of aviation personnel in Laos remains in its infancy, so it is only logical for the airline to turn to Thailand's mature aviation industry and personnel.
They also pointed out the two countries share much of the same culture and language.
However, LCA said the management team from Thailand would work for the airline only in the initial stage to ensure smooth operations.
The airline has made it clear that at least 80% of its positions will be filled by Lao nationals within three years.
The carrier has commissioned the PwC group to draw up business and financing plans.
LCA took delivery of its second used, 168-seat Boeing737-400 at the end of last year, two months after the first one arrived.
The two used Boeings, reportedly parked at the capital's Wattay airport, have been earmarked for international service while two 19-seater turboprop aircraft will be flown domestically.
As well, the carrier placed an order for three Russian-made Sukhoi Superjet 100s in May 2010 for delivery in the second half of this year.
The Lao News Agency reported LCA signed an agreement with Guangzhou Aircraft Maintenance Engineering Co last month to provide aircraft maintenance.
The Vientiane Times earlier said LCA's inaugural service from Vientiane to Bangkok, with four flights a week, will be followed by service to Cambodia, China, Vietnam and Singapore.
The Vientiane-Bangkok route is now served by both countries' flag carriers _ Lao Airlines and Thai Airways International.
Thai AirAsia (TAA) has unsuccessfully sought permission to operate on the route.
Analysts say this is due to Lao authorities' desire to protect its flag carrier and the new LCA from TAA's traditionally fierce price competition.