Bangkok, March 5 -- Thailand is accelerating its plan to develop itself into a regional aviation hub as war-related airspace closures in the Middle East disrupt global flight routes, caretaker Minister of Transport Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn has said.

Phiphat noted that with parts of Middle Eastern airspace shut due to the conflict, Thailand could position itself as a safe and secure transit alternative for international passengers.

Thousands of flights operated by Middle Eastern carriers have been cancelled since fighting erupted over the weekend, though some services have gradually resumed at certain airports. As a result, many foreign travellers have switched to booking long-haul flights to Thailand with national flag carrier Thai Airw...