THAILAND’S domestic turmoil has impinged on Bangkok Airways’ performance, but has not hindered the independent carrier from keeping up its network and fleet expansion ambitions.
Puttipong Prasarttong-Osoth, president, said: “We have been seeing minor effects as most of our passengers typically take our flights to connect to Thailand’s tourist destinations once they arrive in Bangkok. We see an overall decrease, not in any particular sector.”
The carrier’s initial public offering (IPO) launch, originally slated for 2013, has been postponed – no doubt affected by the political troubles. Puttipong is hopeful the filing process can be completed within this year.
The IPO cash haul will “mark a new history” and further propel the airline’s growth, although the CEO declined to elaborate what Bangkok Airways’ priorities are.
The carrier will keep its focus on domestic expansion for the time being, he said. Services from Bangkok to Udon Thani were launched last November, to be followed by Chiang Rai on March 28, widening its domestic network to nine cities.
“We are looking at another domestic destination later this year, possibly in southern Thailand,” he shared.
Frequency of popular routes such as Chiang Mai will be hiked from six daily flights to seven, Phnom Penh from four daily flights to five and the Maldives from five weekly flights to daily.
At the recent Singapore Airshow, Bangkok Airways placed an order for six ATR72-600s worth some US$200 million.
These new jets will spell the beginning of the carrier’s fleet renewal process, and replace the ATR-72 turboprops currently deployed on routes such as Koh Samui, Trat and Luang Prabang.
The first ATR72-600 is expected to arrive later this year, four in 2015 and the final jet in 2016. The six new aircraft will add to Bangkok Airways’ existing 10 Airbus A319s and seven A320s.
For other stories, go to TTG Official Daily – ITB Berlin 2014
