Published on October 18, 2005

THAI AIRWAYS: Domestic fares set to increase by Bt200-300 on some routes

Thai Airways International Plc (THAI) is to increase its fares on some local routes by an average of Bt200-Bt300 after delaying the hike for years.

Despite the increase, THAI says it will still have to absorb some losses. Fares from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, Hat Yai and Phuket will rise by Bt200 per sector trip, while the cost of a ticket from Chiang Mai to Phuket will rise by Bt400 per sector.

Fares from Bangkok to Khon Kaen, Krabi, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phitsanulok, Surat Thani, Trang, Ubon Ratchathani and Udon Thani will rise by Bt300 per trip, while the fare on the feeder route linking Chiang Mai and Mae Hong Son will rise from Bt765 to Bt1,000.

The new rates will take effect on November 1, said THAI executive vice president Vasing Kittikul.

AUTO SECTOR: KPN signs R&D agreement

KPN Automotive Plc has signed a cooperation agreement on research, development and engineering with the National Metal and Materials Technology Centre.

The auto-parts maker recently inked the agreement with the centre to work together on the development of trochanteric nails, said Vanchai Khahakaew, managing director of KPN Automotive.

Thailand’s investment in R&D lags behind most developing countries, even though it aims to become the “Detroit of Asia”.

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