THAI urged to change aircraft procurement plan

BANGKOK, December 16 (TNA) - Thai Transport Minister Air Chief Marshal Sukumpol Suwanatat has urged Thai Airways International (THAI), the national flag carrier, to adjust its aircraft procurement plan to suit its operating results and to find new markets to boost its corporate revenues. Air Chief Marshal Sukumpol recommended that THAI acquire enough aircraft to meet passengers’ demand, but the national airline would have to be carefully plan, probably downsizing its new procurement by a certain extent. Air Chief Marshal Sukumpol gave the policy today when he visited the THAI headquarters in Bangkok, telling reporters that he also suggested the national airline to further find new markets, after it has successfully launched new routes to many towns in India, and to invite its aircraft and aircraft engine suppliers to expand their investment in Thailand to earn the country more revenues. THAI President Piyasvasti Amranand, meanwhile, acknowledged that changes would happen to aircraft procurement from 2018 onward, but the national airline would proceed with its acquisition of 30 new aircraft by 2017 as earlier planned, as the Cabinet had already approved the acquisition. (TNA)