Bangkok, 29 September 2000---Thai Airways International Public Company Limited held the “Official Duty Hand Over Ceremony” today at 14:30 hours, upon the retirement of Mr. Thamnoon Wanglee, in which Mr. Wanglee transferred the role and responsibilities of airline president to Mr. Bhisit Kuslasayanon, THAI’s new President.

Mr. Thamnoon Wanglee, graduated from Assumption College, Bangkok, and continued his education in the United States at Marshal University, West Virginia, where he received a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration, with an emphasis in Accounting and Economics. In 1969, he joined THAI as Chief of the Accounting Division. In 1993, Mr. Wanglee was appointed President of THAI, and has served as President for 7 years, while working with THAI for 31 years.

Mr. Bhisit Kuslasayanon, THAI’s new President, graduated from the University of New South Wales, Australia, with a Master’s Degree of Engineering Science in Computing. Mr. Bhisit joined THAI in 1972 as a Reservations System Manager. Before selection as THAI’s President, he served as Executive Vice President, Customer Services. As the result of unanimous selection upon the retirement of Mr. Thamnoon Wanglee, Mr. Kuslasayanon was appointed THAI’s new President, effective 1 October 2000.

From the beginning of Thai Airways International’s establishment on 1 May 1960, 40 years ago, a total of 11 THAI airline Presidents have held office, those being as follows: L.CDR. Prasong Suchiva, AVM Kraiwan Thavorntharn, AM Suan Sukserm, AM Choo Suthichoti, Flt. Lt. Brom Na Thalang, ACM Bancha Sukhanusasna, ACM Janya Sukontasap, ACM Prayad Didyasarin, ACM Weera Kitchathorn, Pol. Lt. Chatrachai Boonya-Ananta, and Mr. Thamnoon Wanglee.

Back to index...

BANGKOK, September 28, 2000 – The member airlines of Star Alliance, the airline network for earth, has launched StarNet – a sophisticated IT solution that links the computer systems of all 15 airlines. StarNet will permit member airlines to share a wide range of information and thereby serve passengers even more effectively.

Using StarNet, employees at one Star Alliance member airline will have on-line, real-time access to systems operated by other partner airlines, allowing them to handle more complex business transactions and provide seamless service to their customers. For example, a ground agent with any Star Alliance airline will have up-to-the-minute information on the status of another member’s flights – being able to advise of delays or gate changes instantly, without having to send the passenger to the other airline’s counter. StarNet will, in effect, “translate” the information in one airline’s computers and display it on the terminal of another. The network will handle information from a broad range of systems, including flight status, reservations and frequent flyer plans.

Designing a tool set that would allow the literally dozens of different systems created over time by the various airlines to talk to one another was the major challenge presented to the Star Alliance Information Technology team when it was formed last year. The Star Alliance IT team, which is headquartered in Los Angeles and includes staff hired from member airlines as well as industry experts, has led the development of an innovative solution that is simple, relatively inexpensive, yet delivers all the functionality needed for today’s requirements – and tomorrow’s.

Star Alliance Vice President and Chief Information Officer Tim Moore says StarNet acts like an Internet portal. "The information request from one airline is translated into a common language at a gateway before it is being sent on StarNet to another member carrier. There it is transformed at another gateway into the language used by that airline's computer systems. The reply travels back the same way."

The advantage, says Moore, is that the individual member airlines can retain their existing systems, which are well established, highly customized, and difficult to replace. “By contrast,” he says, “if we had decided as a group to switch to a single system, the conversion costs for 15 airlines would have been nearly $2 billion.”

With StarNet, airline employees can use the same screens with which they are already familiar – “which means training costs are minimal,” says Moore.

“StarNet is there to enable us to deliver better customer service,” says Moore, “and to do that we need to be able to serve customers however they choose – in person, by fax or phone, or via the Internet. StarNet gives us that flexibility.

“It also helps the Star Alliance network sustain its competitive advantage over other airline alliances, and opens the door to new levels of member cooperation for the customer's benefit,” he adds.

The prime contractor for StarNet is Lufthansa systems, while Eland Technologies of Dublin, Ireland is developing the system software. Both companies won the assignments in an open competition with many of the world's leading IT suppliers.

Back to index...

21 September 2000, following Thai Airways International's Board of Directors' Meeting, THAI's Chairman of the Board, Mr. Mahidol Chantrangkurn, announced results on selection of the incumbent airline president. Out of 7 short-listed candidates, a total of 3 candidates were selected by the Selection Committee for the Board of Directors' consideration: Mr. Chaisak Saeng-Xuto, Mr. Prajak Jamrusmechoti (THAI's Executive Vice President for Commercial), and Mr. Bhisit Kuslasayanon (THAI's Executive Vice President for Customer Services). Following a vote by THAI's Board of Directors, Mr. Bhisit Kuslasayanon was unanimously selected as THAI's next incumbing president, effective as of 1 October 2000 onwards. THAI's current president, Mr. Thamnoon Wanglee, will retire on 30 September 2000.

Back to index...

21 September 2000, upon the culmination of Thai Airways International Public Company Limited’s Board of Directors’ Meeting at THAI’s Head Office, THAI’s Chairman Mr. Mahidol Chantrangkurn announced the following:

1. THAI Announces New President

THAI's Board of Directors has announced the selection of Mr. Bhisit Kuslasayanon, Executive Vice President for Customer Services, as THAI's incumbent president, effective as of 1 October 2000 onwards.

2. Plans to Increase THAI Shares & Date Set for THAI’s Shareholders’ Meeting 1/2000

THAI’s Board of Directors granted approval for the increase in THAI shares, to be proposed for consideration by the shareholders during THAI’s Shareholders’ Meeting as follows:
   2.1 To consider the approval of decreasing THAI’s registered share capital from 16,000 million baht to 14,000 million baht, by decreasing the registered share capital that has not been issued which amounted to 200 million shares at 10 baht per share or the value of 2,000 million baht.
   2.2 To consider the increase of THAI’s registered share capital from 14,000 million baht to 17,000 million baht by increasing the amount of shares by 300 million shares at 10 baht per share, with the share offering plan being as follows:
     a) 127.5 million shares to be sold to strategic partner
     b) 157.5 million shares to be proposed for public offering
     c) 15 million shares to be offered to prospective employee shareholders in the Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP).
In addition, THAI’s Board of Directors has approved of adjustments made to the company’s prospectus in order to be in alignment with the change in the company’s registered share capital. THAI’s Board has also given approval to hold THAI’s Shareholders’ Meeting 1/2000, which will be held on 25 October 2000 at 13.30 hours, in the Auditorium at THAI’s Head Office, in order to obtain approval for the sale of THAI’s shares. The registrar will be closed for proxy shareholder attendance registration or sale of THAI shares on the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET) on 6 October 2000 at 12.00 hours, after which the sale or transfer of shares will cease until after THAI’s Shareholders’ Meeting ends.

3. Progress Concerning Performance Evaluation of State Enterprises

THAI’s Board of Directors approved of the plan to evaluate the progress of the airline as a state enterprise, under requirements established by the Ministry of Finance which is in accordance with performance evaluation procedures that have been approved by the Thai Cabinet on 20 June 2000. The Ministry of Finance will begin evaluating THAI using this system as of the year 2001 onwards.

Back to index...

11 September 2000, Somdej Phra Buddhajarn Abbot of Wat Sraket, Committee Member of Sangha Supreme Council, presided over the anointing ceremony of three Thai Airways International (THAI) aircraft: Airbus A330-300, Airbus A300-600, and Boeing 747-400, at the Domestic Terminal, Bangkok International Airport. Present during the ceremony were His Excellency Mr. Suthep Thaugsuban, Transport and Communications Minister, and Mr. Thamnoon Wanglee, THAI’s President.

The 389-seater Boeing 747-400 aircraft is the 13th aircraft to join THAI’s aircraft fleet, which was royally bestowed the name “DARARASME” by His Majesty the King, powered by GE engine type 80C2B1F model. The aircraft accommodates 14 seats in Royal First Class, 50 seats in Royal Executive Class and 325 seats in Economy Class. Seats in Royal First Class recline up to 180 degrees with personal in-seat videos and desk lights (snake light). Each seat is separated by a partition, which allows greater privacy and comfort for each passenger. Royal Executive Class passengers may also enjoy personal in-seat videos and inflight telephones. These facilities have been installed on the THAI airplane, operating on European and American routes.

The 260-seater Airbus A330-300 aircraft is the 11th aircraft to join THAI’s aircraft fleet, which was royally bestowed the name “THEPAMAT”, by His Majesty the King, powered by Pratt & Whitney engine PW4168 model. The aircraft accommodates 28 seats in Royal Executive Class and 232 seats in Economy Class. Royal Executive Class passengers may enjoy a wide range of facilities including in-seat videos, and automatic footrests. Inflight telephones and facsimiles have also been installed on this airplane for passengers traveling on all Asian routes.

The 388-seater Airbus A300-600 aircraft is the 11th aircraft to join THAI’s aircraft fleet, which was royally bestowed the name “SRISUBHAN” by His Majesty the King, powered by Pratt & Whitney engine PW4158 model. The aircraft accommodates 49 seats in Royal Executive Class and 339 seats in Economy Class. The aircraft will be used for flight operations on domestic and Asian routes.

Currently, THAI has a total 78 aircraft in its fleet, comprised of 33 Airbus, 39 Boeing, 4 MD-11, and 2 ATR aircraft.

Back to index...

Bangkok, 13 September 2000 -- Thai Airways International Public Company Limited announced that commercial cooperation between THAI and EL AL Israel Airlines has been reached through the signing of a code-share agreement between THAI, represented by Mr. Veravat Chotiros, Vice President, Industry Relations and Commercial Support, and EL AL Israel Airlines, represented by Mr. Nahum Kara, Director, Marketing and International Affairs, on the route Bangkok – Tel Aviv – Bangkok.

Mr. Veravat Chotiros said, “ THAI and EL AL cooperation will enhance tourist traffic between the two countries. According to the figure from the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) in 1999, 64,000 Israeli tourists visited Thailand. Also, through a cooperation, THAI is now able to offer its code-share service to a large number of Thai workers for travelling to and from Israel.”

THAI currently code-shares on EL AL three flights per week on the route Bangkok – Tel Aviv flight TG4580 on Sunday, Tuesday, and Friday. As for return flights, the airline has offered three fights per week on the route Tel Aviv – Bangkok flight TG4581 on Sunday, Wednesday, and Thursday.

Code-share flights took effected on September 1, 2000.

THAI offers 24-hour reservation and flight information service at 628-2000 and 280-0060.

Back to index...

30 August 2000, Thai Airways International Public Company Limited held a Board of Directors’ Meeting, chaired by Mr. Mahidol Chantrangkurn, THAI’s Chairman, with the following results:

I. Airbus A300-600 Mock-Up Aircraft Visual System Modification

The Board of Directors approved the budget of 100 million baht for Airbus A300-600 Mock-Up Aircraft Visual System Modification in order to meet the international standard and to maintain the standard of THAI’s Pilot Training Course. The consideration will be through a close bid from 4 invited bidders.

II. Long-Term Finance for Boeing 777-300 Aircraft No. 5 and 6

The Ministry of Finance has approved of THAI’s plan to acquire Boeing 777-300 aircraft No. 5 and 6 through asset based financing loans, with US EXIM Bank and ECGD as the guarantors for payment of the loan. However, since processing of the loan would not be attained in time for aircraft delivery, the Board of Directors authorized for THAI to pursue bridge leasing with Boeing Commercial Airplane Group in time for delivery of the airline’s Boeing 777-300 aircraft No. 5 and 6. The action remains pending approval from the Ministry of Finance.

III. Selling of Airbus A310-204 Aircraft

The Board of Directors approved of the sale of the airline’s Airbus A310-204 aircraft, as well as the sale of spare parts and mechanical equipment of the Airbus A310-204 to Cabot Aviation Ltd., at a fair price.

IV. Approval for Purchase of Revenue Management System

The Board of Directors has approved the purchase of the Revenue Management System (Phase I) from PROS Revenue Management Inc., based on a budget of 92.2 million baht. Utilization of the Revenue Management System will aid THAI in the airline’s goal to increase revenues earned in transporting passengers. The system will assist in the accumulation of sales statistics from many sources in order to be analyzed with applied statistics and to forecast market demand in the future. The system will also assist THAI in estimating the level of passenger traffic for each flight, in hopes of maximizing company revenue.

Back to index...

Throughout September 2000, Thai Airways International Public Company Limited is pleased to offer a special on board menu to passengers travelling on every class of all flights departing from Bangkok to Sydney in support of the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games being held in Australia.

Mr. Wichit Yuktadatta, THAI’s Vice President, Inflight Customer Services Department, announced that, “To support the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games in Australia , we would like to introduce our passengers to an extra special menu as follows ;

Royal First Class:
Tasmanian Smoked Salmon Loin served with Potato with Skin, Sour Cream and Scvruga Caviar

Roast Australian Tenderloin of Beef with Rosemary Sauce
or Poached Cod Fish Fillet en Bouillabaisse
or Stuffed Chicken Wings Curry “Pa-naeng” with Duo of Rice

Royal Executive Class:
Seafood Bouillabaisse Terrine

Grilled Australian Tenderloin of Beef with Rosemary Sauce or Poached Cod Fish Fillet on Garden Vegetables with Pesto Sauce
or Chicken Massaman with Steamed Jasmine Rice

Economy Class :
Grilled Australian Tenderloin of Beef with Rosemary Sauce
or Chicken Massaman with Steamed Jasmine Rice

The special menu will be prepared with local and Australian ingredients and food products. In addition, THAI has arranged to have a ‘Chef on Board’ who serves as a Food Specialist and THAI’s Executive Chefs such as M.L. Sirichalerm Svasti (Muek Daeng), and Mr. Santo Zoppis to recommend and serve the meals to the First Class passengers.

Currently, THAI operates 12 flights per week between Bangkok and Sydney, using Boeing 747-400 and Boeing 777-300 aircraft. The Boeing 747-400 aircraft is able to accommodate a total of 405 passenger seats, while the Boeing 777-300 is able to accommodate a total of 388 passenger seats.

Back to index...

New University of Illinois study credits code-sharing and anti-trust immunity enjoyed by Star Alliance airlines with a 27% reduction in air fares involving multi-carrier itineraries

BANGKOK – August 25, 2000 -- Star Alliance today cited the findings of a recently released University of Illinois study on the benefits of code-sharing and anti-trust immunity as further evidence of the overwhelming customer benefits of airline alliances.

The study, based on historical domestic and international fare data compiled by the United States Department of Transportation at a given point in time during the third quarter of 1999, found that customers flying itineraries on airline alliances involving more than one carrier lead to lower fares. In the specific case of itineraries involving more than one member of Star Alliance, of which Thai Airways International Public Company Limited (THAI) is a member, when fares of multiple carriers were combined, the alliance resulted in an average 27% reduction in fares versus multi-carrier itineraries where traditional inter-airline (interline) pricing methods were employed. It also credited Star Alliance airlines with saving customers $100 million annually as a result of the combination of code-sharing and anti-trust immunity that some members of Star Alliance currently hold.

The July 2000 study, prepared by University of Illinois economist Jan K. Brueckner, also predicted that if anti-trust immunity were extended in the future to those Star Alliance carriers that do not currently have it, an additional $20 million in annual savings would be generated for the traveling public when flying on more than one member of the alliance.
In the study, Professor Brueckner concluded that, “In addition to enjoying the convenience gains made possible by airline cooperation, interline passengers reap substantial benefits in the realm of pricing, paying substantially lower fares as a result of cooperative behavior.” Brueckner also attributed much of the savings to the anti-trust immunity held by several members of Star Alliance, saying “The immunity enjoyed by Star Alliance partners generates an aggregate benefit of about $80 million per year for interline passengers. Code-sharing among Star partners yields a further annual benefit of around $20 million. Thus, these two existing forms of cooperation generate a benefit for the alliance’s interline passengers of approximately $100 million per year.”

Welcoming the results of the study, United Airlines Vice President for International and Regulatory Affairs Michael Whitaker said, “These results clearly demonstrate that in addition to all of the seamless service benefits that customers of Star Alliance have enjoyed for the past three years, the anti-trust immunity held by members of Star Alliance is resulting in significantly lower air fares. From its inception, Star Alliance has been about providing customers with access to the world through a travel experience that’s as seamless as flying on just one airline. The July 2000 study shows that when the seamless standard is allowed to be extended to pricing, the flying public saves tens of millions of dollars every year.”

The study attributed fare reductions on itineraries involving multiple members of Star Alliance to three levels of airline cooperation:

LEVEL OF COOPERATION	PERCENTAGE FARE REDUCTION
CODE-SHARING	7%
ALLIANCE MEMBERSHIP	4%
ANTI-TRUST IMMUNITY	16%
TOTAL	27%

The study was based primarily on itineraries that originate or terminate in the United States and involve multiple aligned airlines flying across the Atlantic or across the U.S.-Canadian border, comparing them to multi-carrier itineraries from the same origin to the same destination on carriers that are not part of an alliance. Star Alliance members Air Canada, Lufthansa German Airlines, SAS Scandinavian Airlines and United Airlines currently hold anti-trust immunity.

Complete copies of the report can be obtained at www.brueckner-report.com. United Airlines offers more than 2,400 flights each day to 134 destinations in 26 countries and two U.S. territories. United Airlines’ Internet address is www.united.com.

Current members of Star Alliance members are: Air Canada, Air New Zealand, All Nippon Airways, Ansett Australia, Austrian Airlines Group (which comprises Austrian Airlines, Lauda Air and Tyrolean Airways), British Midland, Lufthansa German Airlines, Mexicana, Scandinavian Airlines System – SAS, Singapore Airlines, Thai Airways International, United Airlines and VARIG Brazilian Airlines. With the addition of the new members, the Star Alliance network will offer more than 9,200 daily flights to more than 800 destinations in 130 countries. Star Alliance’s Internet address is www.staralliance.com.

Back to index...

Starting August 1, 2000 onwards, THAI offers unbeatable air fares for passengers using THAI's Flight Reservation on-line service (Internet), www.thaiairways.com, who wish to plan travels outside and within Thailand.

Following the announcement in June 2000, THAI found that a large number of customers have accessed THAI’s Flight Reservation via THAI’s web site, www.thaiairways.com to arrange their flight reservation. THAI offers special on-line fare promotion for members of THAI’s Flight Reservation as exclusive privileges.

Fares and all travel arrangements including reservation on the Internet are valid during August 1-31,2000.

Note Fares and space availability are subject to change without prior notice

International Routes (valid from 1-31 August 2000)

• Bangkok-Bandar Seri Begawan (Round Trip) THB 7,400 14 days maximum stay in one location. Travel on Tuesday only.
• Bandar Seri Begawan-Bangkok (Round Trip) BND 500 14 days maximum stay in one location. Travel on Tuesday only.
• Bangkok-Danang (Round Trip) THB 8,500 3 days minimum stay and 14 days maximum stay in one location.
• Danang-Bangkok (Round Trip) USD 285 3 days minimum stay and 14 days maximum stay in one location.
• Perth-Bangkok (Round Trip) AUD 760 3 days minimum stay and 14 days maximum stay in one location., departing on Sunday and Monday and TG995, departing on Thursday and Friday.
• Seoul-Bangkok (Round Trip) KRW 515,000 3 days minimum stay and 14days maximum stay in one location. Available on THAI flight TG657, departing on 26-27 August 2000 only.

Domestic Routes in Thailand (valid from 1-31 August 2000)

• Bangkok-Chiang Mai (Round Trip) THB 3,000. Available on THAI flights TG124 and TG123 only.
• Bangkok-Chiang Mai (One way) THB 1,500. Available on THAI flight TG124 only.
• Chiang Mai-Bangkok (Round Trip) THB 3,000. Aailable on THAI flights TG123 and TG124 only.
• Chiang Mai-Bangkok (One way) THB 1,500.Available on THAI flight TG123 only.
• Bangkok-Phuket (Round Trip) THB 3,600. Available on THAI flights TG201 and 202 only.
• Bangkok-Phuket (One Way) THB 1,800. Available on THAI flight TG201 only.
• Phuket-Bangkok (Round Trip) THB 3,600. Available on THAI flights TG202 and 201 only.
• Phuket-Bangkok (One Way) THB 1,800. Available on THAI flight TG202 only.

The privileges are for those who make fight reservation via THAI’s Flight Reservation on-line service, www.thaiairways.com, and issue their tickets within 31 August 2000. The advantage of this web-site service is that passengers can access a wide range of travel information and select their preferred choice of travels and THAI’s Royal Orchid Plus members can also accumulate their mileage.

Please stay in touch via www.thaiairways.com.

Back to index...

Thai Airways International Public Company Limited announced its nine-month operating results between October 1999 to June 2000 of the 1999/2000 Budget Year. The operating result was less than the same period last year by 2,659 million baht.

Mr. Amnuay Chanya, THAI’s Executive Vice President, Finance and Information Technology, announced the third quarter results (April-June 2000) as follows. THAI’s operating revenue reached 29,278 million baht, an increase of 4,021 million baht or 15.9 per cent, compared to the same period last year. THAI’s operating profit was 3,157 million baht, an increase of 295 million baht or 10.3 per cent.

As for the nine-month results, THAI achieved an operating revenue of 88,860 million baht, a pre-tax profit of 10,770 million baht which accounted for a net profit of 8,573 million baht, lower than the same period last year by 2,659 million baht. Earnings per share was 6.12 baht, compared to the same period last year at 8.02 baht.

An increase in the cost of fuel in the world market was the cause of lower results. Fuel expenses during the past nine months increased by 5,436 million baht compared to the same period last year.

Back to index...

15 August 2000, Mr. Sutat Rattakunjara, Vice President, Product Development and Management, Thai Airways International Public Company Limited, together with Mr. Kawin Asawachatroj, THAI’s Director, Cargo and Mail Commercial Department, held a press conference to announce the launch of THAI’s Cargo website www.thaicargo.com, at Kampangphet Room 3, Central Grand Plaza Hotel.

An introduction of the on-line cargo service through Internet website www.thaicargo.com will enable THAI to accommodate rising customer demand in cargo services and compete effectively among airline operators. The website is divided into 7 main sections – ABOUT US, SERVICE, OFFICE, SCHEDULE, RESERVATION, TIPS & NEWS, and FEEDBACK. Through this on-line service, customers may check the whereabouts of their cargo by entering airwaybill numbers, and are able to receive the most up-to-date news, information, and special promotions on Cargo and Mail Commercial Department. The THAIPAC cargo service has been specially designed for visitors departing from Bangkok to overseas destinations with large cargo bulk. THAIPAC guarantees the on-time arrival of cargo within 3 days of passengers’ arrival. Contact addresses and numbers of THAI worldwide offices are also available on this website where customers can make direct contact with THAI personnel.

Mr. Sutat Rattakunjara, THAI’s Vice President, Product Development and Management, said “Currently, there are over 1 million Internet users in Thailand and it has been forecast to rise by 200 per cent in the near future. THAI has been providing cargo services since 1960 and we have continued to develop our services both in terms of standard, quality products and innovations to THAI customers including shippers, consignees, freight forwarders, customer airlines, and the general public. This on-line service will help customers to receive first hand information on THAI cargo service, with fast and direct access.”

“Through close cooperation with Star Alliance, THAI is able to expand its cargo network to cover some 800 destinations in 130 countries worldwide. It is our goal to create the highest standard of customer satisfaction and in turn generate more incoming revenue for Thailand.” added Mr. Kawin Aswachatroj, THAI’s Director, Cargo and Mail Commercial Department.

THAI Cargo and Mail Commercial Department was awarded ISO 9002 Certification in 1999.

Back to index...

On 27 July 2000, Thai Airways International Public Company Limited held a Board of Directors’ Meeting, chaired by Mr. Mahidol Chantrangkurn, THAI’s Chairman, with the following results:

I. Appointment of New Director
The Board of Directors approved the appointment of Police General Narongvich Thaithong, Deputy Commissioner General, Royal Thai Police Department, as a member of THAI’s Board of Directors, replacing Police General Pracha Promnog after his recent resignation.

II. Committee to Select Candidates for THAI’s Airline President Succession
The Board of Directors approved the appointment of a special committee to select candidates for THAI’s airline president succession as follows:

1. Mr. Mahidol Chantrangkurn – Chairman Chairman of the Board of Directors, and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Transport and Communications
2. Mr. Suphachai Phisitvanich – Member Board of Director, and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Finance
3. Air Chief Marshal Terdsak Sujjaruk – Member Board of Director, and Chief of the Air Staff, Royal Thai Air Force
4. Khunying Dhipavadee Meksawan – Member Secretary-General, Office of the Civil Service Commission
5. Mr. Ekamol Kiriwat – Member Special Consultant to THAI’s Board of Directors, and Board of Director, Bank of Thailand

III. Privatization
The Board of Directors approved the hiring of specialized privatization advisory firms, namely Baker & McKenzie as the Legal Advisor and KPMG Audit (Thailand) Co.,Ltd. as an Accounting Advisor for the public offering of THAI shares in accordance with the privatization plan which has already been approved by the Cabinet.

IV. Purchasing of THAI-Airline Tickets Processing System
The Board of Directors approved the purchase of THAI-Airline Tickets Processing System through a bidding process. The system will boost efficiency in calculating the flown revenue at THAI’s Accounting Revenue Department. The THAI-Airline Tickets Processing System is faster, more convenient and less time consuming than the current system.

Back to index...

Bangkok, 13 July 2000, --- The Country Sales Committee (CSC) Thailand, representing the 15 airline members of the Star Alliance group, jointly held the Star Alliance Agent Seminar’ 2000, under the theme “Flying with the Star” for 150 leading Thai travel agents, at the Grand Ballroom Hall, J W Marriot Hotel. The seminar was officially opened by Mr. Aran Apichari, THAI’s Director, Area Thailand. The General Managers of Star Alliance airline members stationed in Thailand were also present at the seminar.

The main objectives of this seminar are to create greater awareness of and provide more information on Star Alliance products and services, aiming to further enhance customer service of the travel agents. Five workshops have been organized to cover major area of interests - Frequent Flyer Program & special benefits, Round the world fare, Partner networks, The Alliance, and Communication.

Currently, the airline members of Star Alliance include Air Canada, Air New Zealand, Ansett Australia, All Nippon Airways, Lufthansa, Scandinavian Airlines, Thai Airways International, United Airlines, Varig Brazilian, Singapore Airlines, Austrian Airlines Group (Lauda Air, Austrian Airlines, Tyroleon Airways), and Mexicana and British Midland being the newest members, which joined the alliance in June this year.

Back to index...

On 19th July, Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn will graciously preside over a concert performance by Khun Ploypailin Jensen at Sydney Royal Opera House, Australia, to celebrate the 50th royal wedding anniversary of Their Majesties the King and Queen of Thailand.

The concert is organized through cooperation between Thai Airways International Public Company Limited, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, The Royal Thai Consulate-General in Sydney, and the Royal Thai Embassy in Canberra. The Governor of New South Wales and representatives from embassies and consulates in Canberra and Sydney will be among the guests at the concert.

Khun Ploypailin Jensen will perform a piano concerto and also sing accompanied by the Australian Opera and Ballet Orchestra, which will be specially conducted by Mr. Ross Pople, from the London Festival Orchestra. The piano pieces will include FINGAL’S CAVE OVERTURE by MENDELSSOHN, CARMEN SUITE No.1 by BIZET and RHAPSODY IN BLUE by GERSHWIN. The vocal selection will include songs composed by His Majesty King Bhumibol and H.R.H. Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn for this special performance.

The concert will be broadcast live by Thai Television Channel 9 between 17:30-19:00 hours (Bangkok local time).

Back to index...

The Public Relations of Thai Airways International Public Company Limited announced cancellation of flight operations to Udon Thani due to heavy rain and floods at airport.

After several days of heavy rain, the runway and taxiway of Udon Thani airport, located at the northeastern part of Thailand, were flooded. The electrical system controlling the runway and taxiway lights was temporary disconnected for safety reasons. As a result, Thai Airways Internationalannounced the cancellation of scheduled flight operations between Bangkok and Udon Thani as follows:

12 July 2000 – TG018 and TG019
13 July 2000 – TG008 and TG009
13 July 2000 – TG010 and TG011
13 July 2000 – TG018 and TG019

Udon Thani airport will be closed from 0700 hours on 13th July to 0700 hours on 14th July. THAI will then resume normal flight operations.

Currently, THAI operates three daily flights on the route Bangkok-Udon Thani, using the Airbus A300-600 aircraft.

Back to index...

Bangkok – 6 July 2000, Thai Airways International Public Company Limited, led by Mr. Thamnoon Wanglee, THAI’s President, and the Thai Olympic Committee, led by General Chetta Thanajaro, Chairman, signed an agreement of sponsorship to bring Thai athletes to the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games, which is scheduled to take place during 15 September – 1 October 2000.

Mr. Thamnoon Wanglee, THAI’s President, said, “THAI is proud to be the official airline for the Thai Olympic Committee, bringing over 130 Thai athletes, officials, and media from Thailand to the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games. THAI has always placed strong emphasis on promoting all types of sports, which help boost relationships between people and countries. Sporting events also provide an excellent opportunity for Thai athletes to develop their skills to international standards, and further strengthen the relationship between nations.”

Thai Airways International has been appointed the official airline for both Thai and Swedish Olympic Committees, bring athletes from Thailand and Sweden to participate in the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games. In 1998 THAI was the official carrier for the 13th Asian Games and SEA Games in 1999.

THAI currently operates 12 flights per week on the route Bangkok – Sydney v.v., using the Boeing 777-300 and 747-400 aircraft.

Back to index...

Thai Airways International Public Company Limited has recently launched a new website for flight reservations, THAI FLIGHT RESERVATIONS, effective from 29th June onwards.

“THAI’s main objective is to ensure maximum satisfaction and convenience of customer. In addition to THAI’s 24-hour reservation service at Tel: 628-2000, passengers may now make their flight reservations for both THAI domestic and international flights via Internet at web-site www.thaiairways.com” said Mr. Prajak Jamrasmechoti, THAI’s Executive Vice President, Commercial.

THAI’s web-site offers simple and easy guidelines for customers when making flight reservations and members of THAI’s frequent flyer program, Royal Orchid Plus (ROP), are able to accumulate the mileage entitled as usual.

THAI also offers special airfare for those accessing this web-site where customers can freely select their preferred choice of airfare, especially with THAI flight operations on the international routes departing from Bangkok and Zurich. The special airfare also extends to cover outgoing flights from Bangkok en-route to 6 destinations namely Phuket, Sydney, Hong Kong, Denpasar, and Auckland as well as THAI flights departing from Singapore en-route to 3 destinations namely Bangkok, Jakarta, and Hong Kong.

To express gratitude and appreciation to customers using the web-site, THAI has prepared a wide range of rewards, offering international-standard hotel accommodation, special tour programs and extra mileage accumulated to THAI’s Royal Orchid Plus members.

Back to index...

29 June 2000, at the Head Office of Thai Airways International Public Company Limited, THAI’s Board of Directors’ Meeting was held and was chaired by the Chairman of the Board, Mr. Mahidol Chantrangkurn. The following issues were discussed:

1. Resignation of Members of the Board
THAI’s Board of Directors accepted the resignation of Police General Pracha Promnog, who sent in his letter of resignation effective as of 13 June 2000 onwards.

2. Aircraft Financing for Boeing 777-300 no. 5 and 6
THAI’s Board of Directors granted approval for the airline to seek long term financing for the purchase of Boeing 777-300 aircraft no. 5 and 6, with consultation on the conditions and agreement processes with the Ministry of Finance. When approval from the Ministry of Finance is obtained, aircraft finance plans will proceed further. Before the long term aircraft financing may be put into implementation, the proposed plans will be put forth to THAI’s Board of Directors for approval.

3. THAI Named One of World’s Finest Airlines for Inflight Services
THAI’s Board of Directors acknowledged the results of a survey conducted by Inflight Research Survey (IRS) based in Oxford, England. THAI was selected as one of the best air carriers worldwide for excellence in inflight services. Results of the survey were published in the June 2000 issue of the Orient Aviation magazine, rating a total of 150 airlines worldwide, the evaluate the quality of each airlines’ front line product, service quality performance, flight operations and airport and ground services. This on-line survey received feedback from approximately 150,000 respondents, the results of which were analyzed and concluded by the travel panel members worldwide.

4. THAI’s Airline President Succession Planning Program
In accordance with the results of THAI’s Board of Directors’ Meeting 5/2000 held on 25 May 2000, THAI’s Board discussed plans leading toward implementation of an Airline President Succession Planning Program, whereby the details concerning this matter were omitted from the minutes of the previously held board meeting. THAI’s Board reviewed issues that had been previously discussed and the following conclusions were made:
    1. Discontinuation of the condition that the incumbent candidate should hold the position to full term, previously stated as 3 years per one term, which had been proposed in order for management transition
    2. Correction was made concerning the stipulation that the candidate need be or need have held a management level position in a government organization or the private sector; the said candidate should have worked for an organization with an investment budget and/or operating budget or turnover not less than THB 100,000 million baht per year, which should be corrected to be not less than THB 50,000 million baht per year.
    3. Correction should be made to the requirement that the candidate should have an excellent corporate vision and human relations, without omitting reference to “excellent”.

Back to index...

Thai Airways International Public Company Limited announced the cancellation of shark fin soup on board THAI First and Royal Executive Class service on all international flights in support of the national environmental and ecological preservation policy.

Mr. Bhisit Kuslasayanon, THAI’s Executive Vice President, Customer Services, said, “THAI decided to exclude shark fin soup from our on-board menu as part of our commitment towards environmental protection of Thailand’s flora and fauna. According to the recent environmental report, some 60,000 Pacific sharks were killed every year to satisfy human appetite for shark fin soup considered as delicacy in Asian Cuisine. This consumption behavior has resulted in a dramatic decline of shark population over the years, and consequently causes irreversible damage to the fragile marine ecosystem. In response to this alarming issue, the United States House of Representatives voted to ban shark finning on 6th June 2000. We immediately responded to passenger concern and acted in support of worldwide conservation efforts. Shark fin soup was withdrawn from THAI’s in-flight menu, effective from 10th June 2000 onwards. Other choices of dishes will be served as the alternatives which are equally delicious and pose no threat to the environment.”

In response to the growing concern for the global environmental, shark fin soup was withdrawn from THAI’s in-flight menu with immediate effect. We hope that THAI passengers agree to take part in this decision to ensure that the population of sharks worldwide are well-maintained into the future.

Back to index...