THAI Continues Normal Operations on the Route Bangkok – Hat Yai v.v. Thai Airways International Public Company Limited announced that the airline continues normal operations on the route Bangkok – Hat Yai (in Songkla) v.v. Mr. Kanok Abhiradee, President of Thai Airways International Public Company Limited, said that the conflict in three provinces in Southern Thailand, those being Yala, Pattani, and Songkla, has not affected THAI’s flights. THAI’s flights to Hat Yai, in Songkla, continue as normal. Hat Yai Airport is located 100 kilometers away from Sabayoi district, in Songkla province. Furthermore, THAI does not operate flights to the provinces of Yala and Pattani. Previous to today’s conflict, THAI increased strict security measures at airports and on board, with concern for flight safety, passengers, and employees. In addition, THAI has coordinated with the Airports of Thailand Public Company Limited to increase security measures and has put security guards in place at all areas as a special security measure. THAI operates 5 daily flights on the route Bangkok – Hat Yai v.v. Further information is available by contacting Tel. 02-628-2000. Back to index..

THAI Holds Milan Magic Promotion, Marking its 44th anniversary and Launching the Milan Route Thai Airways International Public Company Limited is organising the Milan Magic Promotion to celebrate the airline's 44th anniversary and to mark its new Bangkok-Milan route in May 2004. Mr. Suthep Suebsantiwongse, THAI's Executive Vice President for Commercial, said that THAI will be celebrating its 44th anniversary on 1 May 2004 and the Commercial Department will launch a special promotion called "Milan Magic" for THAI passengers, especially Royal Orchid Plus members, throughout the month of May. The Milan Magic Promotion covers 12 different offerings worth 1,353,880 baht, namely Jessye Norman Concert, Puccini Turandot - Somtow Sucharitkul's interpretation of the classic opera, Italian food and wine promotion, Italian cooking class, soccer training with Inter Milan coaches, best Italian film from European film festival 2004, Italian fashion and design seminars, Milan Fair and Auto Show, a chance to win 12 free tickets Bangkok-Milan v.v. from THAI when shopping at Central, Emporio Armani, and participating restaurants and stores. Jessye Norman : "A voice for Peace" Opera concert on 2 May 2004, at the Thailand Cultural Centre. For more information contact 0-2204-9999. Soccer Training with Inter Milan Coaches : To provide an opportunity for Thai youth to learn from world-class coaches during 1-8 May 2004 at Rajamangala Sports Stadium. For special discount call 0-2545-1732 or 0-2545-3743. Milan Fair and Auto Show : Enjoy top Italian automobile designs and a parade of vintage cars and Vespas. Book special Bangkok-Milan fares and special Royal Orchid Holiday's Milan Stopover packages at the TG booth and receive an Armani gift voucher worth 2,500 baht during 4-9 May 2004 at Central World Plaza. Puccini Turandot : Somtow Sucharitkul's interpretation of the classic opera during 12-14 May 2004 at the Thailand Cultural Centre. 8,000 Royal Orchid Plus mileage points can be exchanged for 1 free ticket. For more information, please contact 0-2545-1732 or 0-2545-3743. The Art of Italian Cuisine : Enjoy the best of Italian cuisine from leading Milan chefs during 17-23 May 2004 at Biscotti restaurant, Four Seasons Hotel. 6,000 Royal orchid Plus mileage points may be redeemed for 1 pass. Please contact 0-2545-1732 or 0-2545-3743. Central Special : Italian cooking class at the Food Loft, Central Chidlom during 30 May - 9 June 2004. Shopping at Central's May Day Sale gives you a chance to win a free ticket from THAI. Italian Food and Wine Promotion : Italian restaurants in Thailand jointly organise special food and wine promotions. Every 1,000 baht earns you free tickets on THAI during 1-31 May 2004. Royal Orchid Plus members get special discounts at Italasia shop. European Film Festival in 2004 during 20-30 May 2004 at Major Cineplex Central World Plaza, call 0-2305-2646 or 0-2255-9100. Royal orchid Plus members get two free tickets (subject to availability) for Italian film "The Best of Youth". Please contact 0-2545-1732 or 0-2545-3743. Emporio Armani Privileges : Royal First and Royal Executive Class passengers on THAI's Bangkok-Milan route will receive a voucher worth 5,000 baht from Emporio Armani and a chance for the lucky draw prize for free air tickets on THAI during 1 May - 30 June 2004 at Emporio Armani, Gaysorn Plaza. Fashion and Design Seminar : The Ministry of Industry, with the Nuava Accedema di Belle Arti Milano (NABA) will hold seminars on "Made in Italy" and "Worldwide Brand Management of Fashion Accessories" with fashion shows from Italy during 28-29 May 2004 at Sofitel Central Plaza. Furthermore, on all return flights to Bangkok from Milan, Royal First and Royal Executive Class passengers will enjoy Italian cuisine prepared by guest Italian chefs throughout the month of May. Royal Orchid Plus members will also receive bonus mileage: 3,000 points for Royal First Class passengers; 2,000 points for Royal Executive Class passengers; and 1,000 points for Economy Class passengers between 4 May - 31 July 2004. Back to index..

THAI Launches New Route from Bangkok to Bangalore Thai Airways International Public Company Limited recently led a group of Board Members, airline executives, invited guests from public and private sectors, the tourism industry, agents and media representatives to Bangalore, India as part of the inaugural celebrations for the new route Bangkok - Bangalore v.v. The press conference and cocktail receptions for Thai and Indian invitees were held at Le Meridien Hotel, Bangalore, Karnataka State, India. Mr. Kanok Abhiradee, THAI's President, said that the new route aims to meet the growing demand of the expanding trade in India which is considered as the second biggest developing market after China. The number of tourist arrivals from India to Thailand is expected to grow from an average of 280,000 arrivals a year, which previously experienced a 10% increase in 2002 and a 50% increase in 2003. Market growth potential of India accounts for buying demand of approximately 300 million Indian tourists and the Government has established a policy to open the free trade area and aimed to expand the investment between the two countries up to 2,000 million USD within 5 years. Therefore, in response to the policy, THAI has introduced the new Bangkok-Bangalore route, to commence during the summer schedule on 29 March 2004 onwards. Mr. Tatchai Sumitra, THAI's Board member recently presided over the press conference which was held at Le Meridien Hotel, Bangalore and jointly chaired by Mr. Pricha Nawongs, THAI's General Manager for India, with invited guests from private and public sectors, agents, and Thai and Indian media representatives. THAI operates four weekly flights on the route Bangkok-Bangalore v.v. every Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday, utilizing Airbus 300-600 aircraft with a configuration of 247 seats; 46 seats in Business Class and 201 seats in Economy Class. Flight TG 325 departs Bangkok at 19.20 hrs and arrives Bangalore at 21.20 hrs (local time). Return flight TG 326 departs Bangalore at 22.30 hrs (local time) and arrives in Bangkok at 03.50 hrs on the following day. Apart from the Bangkok - Bangalore route, THAI, currently also operates flights from Bangkok to another four destinations in India, namely Delhi served with seven weekly flights; Kolkata served with three weekly flights every Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday; Mumbai (Bombay) served with three weekly flights on every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday; and Chennai served with four weekly flights every Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday. To celebrate the new destination, THAI had offered special bonus mileage points for Royal Orchid Plus members. ROP members who fly THAI flights on the route Bangkok-Bangalore v.v. on any class during 29 March - 31 May 2004 will receive double mileage points per sector. For information on flight schedules and ticket reservation, please contact THAI's Sales Office or ticket agents. Bangalore is the capital of Karnataka State situated in Southern India and is currently the country's fifth largest city covering an area of 450 square kilometres. With a population of 6.5 million speaking Kannada and English, Bangalore is India's Information Technology Centre and is called the country's Silicon Valley. The weather is the city's best feature with pleasant summers and bearable winters. The city is the main link in Southern India with connections to other major cities and acquires numbers of tourist attractions such as the Botanical Garden, Parliament House, Government Museum, Bull Temple, Bangalore Palace, Bidhana Soudha, and Cubbon Park. Back to index..

THAI Upgrades Premium Customer Ground Services Thai Airways International Public Company Limited has upgraded its ground services for premium customers, beginning from the moment they leave their residence until they board the aircraft, and the moment they disembark until they reach their destination. Mrs. Rhachaya Pamon-Montri, THAI's Managing Director of Ground Customer Services Department, said that the department provides services directly to the customer and has in mind their increased comfort and convenience. Recently, THAI upgraded the First and Business Class lounges and introduced new services to provide a comprehensive package for the benefit of its premium customers. These include: - Royal Transfer Service for First Class passengers between the airport and their accommodation both on arrival and departure, using a fleet of Mercedes Benz E220 CDI and C180 limousines. - Porterage Service for First Class passengers in the Arrival Hall at Terminal 1 of Bangkok International Airport, as well as porterage service through the security X-ray until check-in. - Personal Service for First and Business Class passengers during check-in as well as a Fast Track immigration counter. - Royal Orchid Lounge for First and Business Class passengers, elegantly decorated in contemporary Thai style with local products, and offering a variety of snacks and seasonal fruits, beverages from coffee and tea to Thai herbal drinks, Internet, shower rooms and massage chairs. - Boarding for First Class passengers includes a ride from the Royal Orchid Lounge to the security check prior to the departure gate. Arriving passengers will be offered the following services: - Arrival/Fast Track - First and Business Class passengers will be met and ushered through a Fast Track immigration counter. - Baggage Service - Staff will be on hand to retrieve baggage from the carousel for First Class passengers, escort them through Customs, and deliver them to a waiting limousine to take them to their place of accommodation. First and Business Class passengers leaving Thailand will also be able to enjoy a soothing traditional Thai massage in the lounge at Bangkok International Airport as a memorable reminder of Thailand. THAI is also redecorating the customer service points such as the check-in counters, departure gates, airport ticket offices, as well as staff uniforms. This is all part of a total image and service enhancement programme in order to take the airline towards leadership in the airline industry. Back to index..

THAI Passengers to be Offered Thai Traditional Massage 22 April 2004, at the Ministry of Public Health, Mrs. Sudarat Keyuraphan, Minister of Public Health and Mr. Kanok Abhiradee, President of Thai Airways International Public Company Limited, chaired a joint press conference to announce the "Thai Touch, Thai traditional Massage" project, introducing Thai traditional massage service which will be made available for THAI's Royal First Class and Royal Executive Class passengers at Royal Orchid Lounges located at the Departure hall, Bangkok International Airport during 26 April - 26 July 2004. Mr. Kanok Abhiradee, THAI's President, said that the new service is intended to give both Thai and foreign travellers a unique Thai massage experience while relaxing in THAI's lounge to board their flights. Fifteen professional masseuse will be on hand to provide a basic massage service from 06.00 - 24.00 hours daily, with each session lasting 20 minutes per passenger after which Thai hebal drinks will be served. The service will further promote Thai hospitality and folk wisdom at more international level. Thai massage has become increasingly popular because of its both mental and physical health benefits and this service is expected to attract a lot of interest among THAI passengers. To heighten awareness of Thai traditional massage among foreign visitors, THAI will be distributing leaflets providing information on traditional medicine. THAI will also promote Thai traditional massage further by producing inflight video for passengers and thai traditional massage course for THAI cabin crew. The possibility of providing inflight traditional massage is also being considered. Back to index..

THAI Ranks Top Five in Skytrax Airline of the Year 2004 Thai Airways International Public Company Limited announced that the airline ranked among the top five airlines in this year's Skytrax Airline of the Year survey, the world's largest passenger survey. Mr. Kanok Abhiradee, THAI's President, said that THAI moved up to 5th position in the Skytrax Airline of the Year survey for 2004, from 8th rank last year, and placed in 2nd position in Southeast Asia amongst Asia - Regional Best Airlines under the Regional Best Airline Category. Mr. Abhiradee further stated that THAI's move into the rank of one of the top five airlines in the world were due to excellence in cabin crew service, economy cabin legroom, and inflight catering. This year's Skytrax airline survey concluded that passengers traveling economy class are being given a higher priority to seat comfort due to spacious seat pitch when compared to other airlines. It was also found that passengers praised THAI's standards of cabin crew service, such as attitude, general courtesy, and friendliness, and the airline was commended for its employees' consistently good standards of service. In first class and economy class, THAI received high ratings for inflight catering. THAI also achieved strong ratings for priority and general premium passenger handling at Bangkok International Airport. The Skytrax survey involved a poll of the opinions of 10,821,215 passengers from over 92 nationalities and measured quality of service inflight and on ground at airports and passenger lounges. The survey was conducted during a 10 month period from June 2003 to March 2004. Back to index..

THAI Launches New Route from Chiang Mai to Jinghong Thai Airways International Public Company Limited recently led a group of board members, airline executives, invited guests and media representatives to Jinghong as part of the inaugural celebrations for the new route between Chiang Mai and Jinghong, Xishuangbanna region, Yunnan province, P.R China. The new route is expected to meet the growing demand due to the expanding trade and tourism opportunities in the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) and northern Thailand. The route was launched as part of the new summer schedule starting 31 March 2004. According to Mr Kanok Abhiradee, THAI's President, the new route supports the government's policy to make Chiang Mai the hub of air transport in the northern region. THAI believes that Chiang Mai has potential in terms of economy, trade, investment, medical and educational facilities as well as tourism, while Jinghong, which is located in the south of Yunnan province, P.R. China, is considered the gateway linking southern China to Southeast Asia. Furthermore, it is a member of the Greater Mekong Subregion which comprises Laos, Myanmar, Cambodia, Vietnam, Thailand and China. Jinghong is therefore an important city for the economy, tourism and transport for the Subregion. Jinghong is the centre for research and development of plants and animals of Yunnan province, with tropical plants from all over the world, as well as a variety of tourist attractions and scenery. China's recent "Go West" policy to develop the country's western region including Yunnan province (which connects with northern Thailand), is in line with Thailand's policy to develop Chiang Mai as the northern hub. Jinghong is therefore the natural link with obvious potential as a tourism centre. In the past, approximately 60,000 visitors from Yunnan visited Thailand each year, while 50,000 Thais traveled to Yunnan. The attractions there include the culture, way of life, handicrafts, art and festivals. There is a sense of common heritage, with local ethnic groups having similar cultures to Thailand's northern region. Xishuangbanna also observes the beginning and end of the Buddhist Rains Retreat as well as Songkran. In order to meet the growing demand for travel as a result of expanding trade and tourism in southern China and northern Thailand, THAI has introduced the new Chiang Mai-Jinghong route, utilising ATR 72 aircraft, with twice weekly flights on Wednesday and Friday. Flight TG 660 departs Chiang Mai at 10:40 hrs and arrives in Jinghong at 13:10 hrs. Return flight TG 661 departs Jinghong at 13:50 hrs and arrives Chiang Mai at 14:20 hrs, starting from 31 March 2004. The route is expected to benefit people living in the Greater Mekong Subregion through opportunities for greater income. Apart from the Chiang Mai-Jinghong route, THAI also operates flights from Chiang Mai to nearby cities including Rangoon and Mandalay in Myanmar, Luang Prabang in Laos, Chittagong in Bangladesh, Chennai in India, Hanoi in Vietnam and Chengdu in China. Other routes that link Chiang Mai include Tokyo-Chiang Mai-Bangkok, Taipei-Hong Kong-Chiang Mai-Bangkok, and Chiang Mai-Bangkok-Singapore. The new summer schedule will also see the introduction of new routes between Bangkok-Bangalore and Bangkok-Milan. For information on flight schedules and ticket reservations, call 02-628-2000 24 hours a day. Back to index..

THAI Organizes Agents Meeting to Introduce New Destination Thai Airways International Public Company Limited recently held a meeting to introduce THAI’s new destination on the route Bangkok-Bangalore v.v. to THAI’s agents as well as business and airline representatives in order to inform about the objectives and details of THAI’s new route. THAI operates on the route Bangkok-Bangalore v.v. four flights weekly every Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday, utilizing Airbus A 300-600 aircraft from 29 March 2004 onwards. Back to index..