Thai Airasia has rolled out its first new aircraft, an Airbus A320 jetliner, signaling its determination to win a larger share of the region’s budget travelers, and the company plans also to open new domestic and international routes in the coming year.

The new aircraft A320 flew from Bangkok to the northern province of Chiang Mai on its inaugural flight, with media on board, on Wednesday.

The company ordered 40 new aircraft to join its fleet lineup during the next six years.

Tassapon Bijleveld, chief executive of Thai Airasia, said the new and upgraded fleet will restore confidence among passengers who are concerned about the safety of budget airlines. The new aircraft is expected to elicit a good response from passengers of the economy carrier.

He said he is confident that the aviation industry will grow by 10-15 per cent next year as Thailand’s political uncertainty disappears following the general election December 23.

Thailand’s economy and tourism are expected to improve after the election as well.

Thai Airasia plans also to open a new domestic route to Ranong as the province has the potential for tourism development. Regarding international routes, it will launch new flights to Chinese destinations including Guangzhou, Qongqing, Chengdu, Guilin, Shenzhen, and Hainan as well as to Indonesia’s Jakarta.

Cabin occupancy is expected to increase to over 80 per cent next year from 78 per cent this year, he added. (TNA)-E004.

Source: MCOT