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THAI Offers Special Discount During APEC Holiday Period Between 27-28 September 2003, Thai Airways International Public Company Limited will set up a booth at the Bangkok Convention Center, Central Plaza, to offer a special discount on air tickets for passengers travelling to all domestic routes during APEC holiday in October. This is to promote domestic travel among Thais during APEC period which coincide with school holidays. THAI Executive Vice President for Commercial, Mr. Tasnai Sudasna said, "THAI is offering 25% discount off air fares on all domestic routes for passengers travelling to any domestic destinations during mid week on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. |
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THAI Announces Board Meeting Results 24 September 2003, Thai Airways
International Public Company Limited held a Board of Directors’
Meeting, chaired by Mr. Thanong Bidaya, THAI’s 1. New Senior Management Organization Structure THAI’s Board of Director approved
the airline’s new organization structure in order to improve competitiveness
to the highest level and streamline organization Corporate Planning & Information
Technology Services Department Corporate Support Department Commercial Department Customer Services Department Operations Department Finance and Accounting Department
Human Resources & General Administration
Department Standard, Safety Assurance & Risk
Management Department Technical Department Corporate Communications Relations
System Audit Cargo & Mail Commercial Department
Ground Customer Services Department
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Thailand launches "Thai Cuisine to the World" campaign in London Thai cuisine has carved in niche in
the international gourmet market,and to ensure the quality of Thai restaurants
overseas, the Thai government recently launched the Thai Select campaign
in London.The event, held on 1 September 2003 at the Royal Lancaster
Hotel,London, was presided over by Deputy Prime Minister Somkid Chatusripitak,
Thai Trade Representative, Goanpot Asavinvichit, Permanent-Secretary
of Agriculture and Cooperatives, Banpot Hongthong, and TAT Governor,
Jutamas Siriwan. The launch was conducted in the presence of representatives
of over 400 UK-based Thai restaurant entrepreneurs. On this occasion,
the Thai Select award was |
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THAI Introduces Special Menu Celebrating King Chulalongkorn's 150th Anniversary To mark the 150th anniversary of the late King Chulalongkorn, Rama V, Thai Airways International Public Company Limited is pleased to introduce special menu comprised of the King's favorite dishes. His favorite meals included Kaeng Phed Ped Yang Sai Apple (Duck Curry with Apple, which will be served in Business and Economy Class on flights to five countries, namely England, Germany, Denmark, Switzerland, and Italy. First-Class passengers on all routes will be served selections of Yum Pla Dook Foo (Catfish Salad) as an appetizer, Kaeng Khua Pla Salid (Curry with Gourami Fish) as main course, and Pumpkin custard for dessert. This special menu will be included in THAI’s inflight menu between 1-31 October 2003, to commemorate the great king whose contributions to the nation were vast and far-reaching. THAI has been serving a full course Thai menu for First-Class passengers on the Bangkok-London route (TG 916 and TG 917) since 1 May 2003. Interested passenger may contact THAI’s 24-hour information service for further information, at Tel. 0-2628-2000. |
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THAI Invites ROP Gold Members to Welcome the World’s Leading Tennis Players 23 September 2003 Mr. Kanok Abhiradee, President of Thai Airways International Public Company Limited presided at the “THAI Welcomes Champions of the Courts” reception where THAI’s Royal Orchid Plus Gold Members were invited to meet the world’s leading tennis players, namely Juan Carlos Ferrero, Carlos Moya and Thailand’s own Paradorn Srichaphan at the Ballroom, Conrad Hotel. THAI is the official sponsors of
the Thailand Open 2003 international tennis tournament, which is taking
place between 20-28 September 2003 at the Impact To promote the ATP tour Thailand Open 2003, THAI offers special promotion for passengers travelleing on Royal First and Royal Executive Class between 4-28 September 2003, can redeem their mileage points for free tickets to the Thailand Open 2003 and will receive a free T-shirt of four superstars in tennis. For more information, please contact THAI’s Reservation Office Tel: 0-2628-2000; ROP members please contact 0-2545-1729 and 0-2545-1732 between 9:00-17:00 hours every week days. |
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THAI Wons Best Cellars in the Sky Award 2003 22 September 2003 at Thai Airways International’s Head Office, Mr. Kanok Abhiradee, THAI’s President, received the Best Cellars in the Sky Award 2003 Certificate from Mr. Julian Gregory, Managing Director of Business Traveller Group. THAI won the Best Cellars in the Sky Award 2003 in the recent airline wine survey conducted by the Business Traveller Group, with Fleur de Champagne Brut ranked the first among the champagne and sparkling wines while Chateau Valoux 1999, Pessac-Leoqnan ranked third among red wines, and Bestheim Gewurztraminer 2003 Reserve ranked seventh among the white wine category. Mr. Kanok Abhiradee also announced that the company plans to introduce new dishes from around the world to its inflight menu at a press conference on Inflight Products Promotion. In order to maintain its lead in the airline industry, THAI continually seeks to introduce new ideas especially with regards to its inflight menu in order to satisfy its customers. Therefore, the THAI’s Inflight Service Department and the Flight Kitchen have devised a list of dishes and drinks from around the world to serve passengers on various routes. THAI has also invited celebrity chefs from well-known restaurants to serve as consultants and to train THAI chefs in order to achieve authentic taste in meal preparation. For Routes to Europe For Routes to Brisbane, Sydney and
Melbourne For Routes to India For Routes to Japan For Routes to China In addition, THAI introduced “A Taste of Thai” with a selection of Thai dishes as full course meals. Appetizers start with Plaa Kung spicy salad and Yum Pla Tumtim, followed by Tom Kha Kai, Pork Loin Stir-Fried with Chilli Paste, Gourd Stir-Fried with Shrimp and Egg Served with Rice for the main course. This has been available for First Class passengers since 1 May 2003. To mark the 150th anniversary of the birth of King Chulalongkorn (Rama V), THAI selected a number of his favourite dishes such as Kaeng Phet Ped Yang Sai Apple (Duck Curry with Apple) to serve Business and Economy Class passengers on routes which the king once travelled on his State Visits to Europe. These included visits to England, Germany, Denmark, Switzerland, and Italy. First Class passengers on every flight will also have a choice of Yum Pla Dook Foo, Kaeng Khua Pla Salid, and Pumpkin with Sangkhya custard. In addition to the plentiful menu selection, THAI’s passengers will also be able to enjoy beverages that are second to none. THAI’s champagne recently received the top award for “Best Cellars in the Sky 2003” from Business Traveller magazine, UK. THAI’s passengers also have the opportunity to do some inflight shopping through the new OTOP product catalogue from the One Tambon One Product (OTOP) project. On domestic flights that do not coincide with mealtimes, passengers were offered locally produced snacks such as Makham Yee, Saparot Kuan, Banana Crisps, Cashew Nuts mixed with sesame seeds, and Thong Muan crispy egg rolls. OTOP products are currently being considered as ingredients used in Flight Kitchen, meal preparation, and as crockery and cutlery for inflight meal service. THAI hopes that this attention to detail
with regards to service will result in satisfied customers, constituting
a crucial factor in making THAI a leading airline in the region and
eventually the world. |
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THAI Announces Board Meeting Results Thai Airways International Public Company Limited held its Board of Directors meeting on 17 September 2003, chaired by THAI’s Chairman Mr. Thanong Bidaya. THAI’s Board approved a senior management reshuffle of executive vice-presidents due to forthcoming retirements in September and in accordance with management reorganization. THAI’s Nomination Committee approved of the airline’s new organization structure, which was implemented for the following purpose: 1. To improve competitiveness to the
highest level The reshuffle of THAI’s senior management, effective 1 October 2003 onwards, was announced as follows: 1. Mr. Kanok Abhiradee: President,
and also to be appointed as Acting Executive Vice President, Commercial
Department The Executive Vice President, Customer Services Department position has been recently designated to directly oversee and manage customer services, with special emphasis on recognizing customer concerns and increasing effectiveness in reaching target groups. THAI’s new vision is to become more customer-centric, stressing the importance of improving customer service. 4. Mr. Kobchai Srivilas: Managing
Director, Technical Services Department, to be appointed as Executive
Vice President, Corporate Planning and Information Technology Services
Department |
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THAI Adds New Destinations to Usher in Winter Schedule 2003/2004 Thai Airways International Public Company Limited is adding three new destinations, namely Chennai in India, Guilin in China, and Luang Prabang in Laos, on its international routenet for its winter schedule starting from 26 October 2003 to 27 March 2004. Routes and frequencies will also be incfeased for international and domestic flights. Mr. Kanok Abhiradee, THAI’s President, said that the changes are being implemented to cater to the growing demand in trade and investment as well as among businessmen and tourists. With its new winter schedule 2003/2004, THAI will introduce three new destinations, namely Chennai in India,Guilin in China, and Luang Prabang in Laos. New routes will also be introduced in both the international and domestic networks: Sydney-Melbourne-Phuket-Bangkok, Tokyo-Chiang Mai, and Chiang Mai-Rangoon. The following routes will have increased frequencies: Bangkok-London v.v., Bangkok-Frankfurt v.v., Bangkok-Copenhagen vv, Bangkok-Seoul v.v., Bangkok-Jakarta v.v., Bangkok-Colombo v.v., and Bangkok-Krabi v.v. This is due to the increasing number of passengers as well as delivery of two new Boeing 747-400 aircraft in October 2003. The winter schedule will begin on 26 October 2003 until 27 March 2004. New Destinations New Routes Increased Frequencies All other routes will remain the same. Passengers may request flight details or make their reservations through the Reservation Office 24 hours a day: tel: 0-2628-2000 and 0-2280-0060 |
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THAI and Its Debentures Receives "AA-" Ratings from TRIS Rating 12 September 2003, Thai Airways International
Public Company Limited held a press conference presided by Mr. Kanok
Abhiradee, THAI's President, to announce TRIS Rating Co. Ltd.'s assignment
of the "AA-" rating to the airline and its senior debentures. Mr. Abhiradee said that TRIS Rating Co.
Ltd. assigned the favorable rating of "AA-" for the company
and its 10 billion baht unsubordinated and unsecured debentures. This
investment grade rating reflects the airline's ability to offer very
high interest and capital returns. According to TRIS, THAI's strength
lies in: The airline has consistently achieved a profit since 1964, and good operational results especially over the past 4-5 years. Even with the negative impact on the airline industry as a result of the terrorist attacks on 11 September 2001, the war in Iraq, and the outbreak of SARS,THAI was able to implement several measures to turn the crisis into an opportunity to reverse the threat on its operations, allowing the situation to return to normal within a short period. THAI enjoys an extremely strong market position in domestic routes, controlling around 86% of passenger traffic, a situation which TRIS expects THAI to maintain. Despite the government's introduction of the "Open Sky Policy" in 2000, allowing all Thai airlines to freely operate on THAI's primary and secondary routes, TRIS believes that THAI has a superior product and service, as well as a vast network that connects both domestic and international destinations, and a comprehensive service on every route. In terms of passenger traffic for international flights at the Bangkok International Airport in 2002, THAI's market share stood at around 45%. The company will likely be able to maintain its market share for international routes because its existing traffic rights and airport slots are well protected through bilateral air service agreements between governments. The credit rating also reflects THAI's status as a state enterprise and as a national carrier which receives full support from the government in both financial and operational aspects. Guaranteed loans, government-provided bridging funds and war risk insurance coverage after the events of 11 September 2001 show the support the company receives from the government. To enhance its competitiveness, THAI has made large capital spending plans for 2003-2007, expanding fleet capacity by 17 additional aircraft and upgrading its in-flight product. The capital expenditures will also pay for construction of facilities at the new Suvarnabhumi International Airport in Bangkok, scheduled for completion at the end of 2004. These investment programs will allow THAI to increase flights and improve services in every aspect. TRIS sets its credit ratings into 8 levels according to the potential for repaying interest and capital with AAA being the highest down to D at the bottom of the list. Each rating can be followed by the symbols (+) or (-) to differentiate between those in the same level. At present, a total of 46 companies and state enterprises have been evaluated by TRIS, only six of which have received an AA- rating or higher. To fund the company’s operations and to refinance its existing loans, THAI plans to issue unsubordinated and unsecured debentures totalling 10 billion baht. Two tranches will be available, with the five year debenture offered to institutional investors and the seven year debenture offered to both institutional and retail investors. Both tranches have fixed interest rates of which will depend on the credit rating of the debentures as well as the market situation at the time of issuance. The subscription period is scheduled around the end of September till early October. Interested parties can contact Kasikornbank for further details and information. THAI anticipates that its debentures will be well-received by institutional investors and retail investors due to high liquidity in the market and low interest rate, whereby investors seek to invest in debentures with high levels of security and higher returns than with savings accounts. |
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THAI Signs
Construction Contracts for 5 Activities at Suvarnabhumi Airport
9 September 2003 Thai Airways International Public Company Limited today signed contracts for the construction of five activities which are part of the airline's investment programme at Suvarnabhumi Airport. The contracts were signed by THAI’s President Mr. Kanok Abhiradee, at the THAI’s Head Office. Air Chief Marshal Narongsak Sangapong,
THAI’s Executive Vice President for Special Projects, said that
the design and construction of the facilities is a large-scale procurement
project that is of major significance. In addition, the time constraints
meant that great care had to be taken to select the contractor who offered
the most in modern technology and efficiency, skills and experience,
quality tools and equipment The investment plan for THAI's 6 activities
at Suvarnabhumi Airport are based on the fast track system which divides
work into separate sections for greater efficiency and time-keeping.
Having a separate bidding process for each activity is also beneficial
to the company and supports the government policy for local investment
and to encourage the growth of the local construction industry which
will create jobs With this system, Thai contractors will
be able to show their capability and develop their skills and expertise
in handling large-scale projects.The system also allows THAI to select
those with the particular skills required for each specific project,
since each project has its own defining characteristics especially the
flight kitchen which is highly detailed in its design and construction.
Furthermore, THAI has the added benefit of The fast track system is a complex system for managing a construction project, but THAI has established clear principles for control and inspection to allow the smallest margin for any unexpected occurences. Construction work is set for completion by 31 December 2004, in time for the scheduled opening on 29 September 2005. |
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THAI Rewards Royal Orchid Plus Members To mark the 10th anniversary of its Royal Orchid Plus frequent flyer programme, Thai Airways International Public Company Limited is offering its members a special opportunity to exchange mileage points for tickets to the 5th Bangkok International Festival of Dance & Music. A total of 6,000-10,000 mileage points can be redeemed for one ticket (the highest price tickets for each show) for any of the following selected programmes: 1. “Turandot” by Italian composer Puccini performed by the Hungarian State Opera on Thursday, 18 September 2003. Mileage pointsrequired: 10,000 2. “Tosca” another classic opera by Puccini performed by the Hungarian State Opera on Saturday, 20 September 2003. Mileage points required: 10,000 3. “Romeo & Juliet” ballet performed by the Moscow State Classical Ballet on Friday, 26 September 2003. Mileage points required: 8,000 4. “Nutcracker” ballet performed by the Moscow State Classical Ballet on Saturday, 27 September 2003. Mileage points required: 8,000 5. “Goldberg Variations” performed by the Zurich Ballet on Tuesday, 14 October 2003. Mileage points required: 8,000 6. “Los Flamers” salsa group from Mexico on Sunday, 19 October 2003. Mileage points required: 6,000 For further information or for reservations, contact 0-2545-1729 and 0-2545-1732 |
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THAI Invites ROP Members to the ATP Thailand Open 2003 Members of Thai Airways International Public Company Limited ‘s Royal Orchid Plus frequent flyer programme are being offered the privilege to watching the upcoming ATP Thailand Open 2003, due to take place from 20-28 September 2003 at the Impact Arena, Muangthong Thani. ROP members will have a chance to cheer their favourite tennis players including Thailand's tennis Champion Paradorn Srichaphan, ranked 11th in the world, and over 60 world class players, simply by exchanging their mileage points for free tickets to the matches. Particapating ROP members will also be presented with a free Paradorn T-shirt. For further information or reservations, call 0-2545-1729 or 0-2545-1732 between 09:00-17:00 hours, except weekends and publicholidays. Remarks: |
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THAI Signs Royal Orchid Plus Agreement with Best Western International Royal Orchid Plus (ROP) members will
soon benefit from a new agreement recently signed between Thai Airways
International Public Company Limited and Best Western International
hotel group. The agreement, which offers mileage points on accommodation
at hotels in the Best Western International hotel group, was signed
by Mr. Songsak Namwong, THAI Product Development Director, and David
Kong, According to Mr. Songsak Namwong, THAI's ROP frequent flyer programme celebrates its 10th anniversary this year, and continues to develop its services for the total satisfaction of its members. This agreement will add to the range of options on accommodation for ROP members, whereby they can accumulate mileage points at any of the Best Western International hotel group's 4,000 properties in 83 countries across five continents. To mark this introductory period from 1 September 2003 to 14 January 2004, ROP members will be entitled to double normal mileage points when they stay at Best Western International hotels in the US, Canada, the Caribbean islands and South America. Details may be obtained on THAI's website at www.thaiairways.com/rop and www.goldcrownclub.com Furthermore, to mark ROP’s
10th anniversary, THAI is offering a choice of world-class stage performances,
from opera (Turandot and Tosca), ballet (Romeo and Juliet, the Nutcracker,
Goldbern Variations), dance (Mexican Salsa by Los Flamers), which will
be staged in Thailand for the 5th Bangkok International Festival of
Dance and Music. ROP members may exchange 6,000-10,000 mileage points
for one |
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THAI Holds Extraordinary Shareholders’ Meeting 1/2003 2
September 2003 at 13.30 hours, Thai Airways International
Public Company Limited held an Extraordinary Shareholders’ Meeting
1/2003, which was chaired by Mr. Thanong Bidaya, THAI’s Chairman
of the Board. THAI’s Extraordinary Shareholders’ Meeting 1. Consideration and approval for the Company’s issuance and offering of debentures in Baht and/or in other currency in the amount not exceeding Baht 40,000 million within 5 years. THAI’s Board of Directors proposed that debentures be sold in Thai currency and/or in other currency in the amount not exceeding Baht 40,000 million within 5 years, to be used as the company’s working capital and refinancing the company’s existing loans. THAI’s shareholders approved of the sale of debentures in Thai currency and/or in other currency in the amount not exceeding Baht 40,000 million within 5 years. A total of 1,218 shareholders
attended the meeting, including those who attended in person and appointment
of proxy, at a total of 1,326,754,043 shares. |
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