As Thailand witnesses a record surge in tourist arrivals, national airline Bangkok Airways has turned to its French counterpart Amelia for support in an effort to address a growing aircraft shortage.

 

According to a recent announcement, Bangkok Airways has secured a wet-lease deal with France's Amelia. The agreement ensures the provision of two Airbus narrowbody aircraft to bolster the Thai airline's operations during the peak tourist season.

 

From December 1, Amelia's Airbus A319-100 will be assigned for daily flights from Bangkok to Luang Prabang, as well as twice-daily flights to Siem Reap’s New Angkor International Airport in Cambodia. The larger aircraft, Amelia’s Airbus A320-200, has been allocated to the bustling Bangkok-Phnom Penh route, with three daily flights.

 

Continuing a semblance of familiarity in this whirlwind partnership, Amelia will provide the flight crew while Bangkok Airways' cabin crew will helm in-flight services, promising a smooth and consistent passenger experience. Both aircraft will remain operational for Bangkok Airways until March 29, 2025.

 

 

Thailand's tourism boom has put Bangkok Airways under considerable strain, with the airline finding it difficult to restore its pre-pandemic capacity. Peter Wiesner, the airline’s network management advisor, said, “A lack of aircraft was hindering our ability to return to normal operations.”

 

In a drive towards cementing its future, Bangkok Airways is considering new models such as the Airbus A220 and Embraer E2. The company anticipates formalising a request for proposals by the end of the year, with the potential delivery of new aircraft beginning in 2028. The decision on these new orders is imminent, confirmed CEO Puttipong Prasarttong-Osoth, though further details remain under wraps.

 

The French-Thai aviation collaboration seems aptly timed to handle the colossal task of responding to rising passenger demand, as Thailand's tourism industry charts new highs. This story is undeniably a significant marker on the road to recovery for one of Southeast Asia's most vibrant tourist destinations.

 

File photo for reference only

 

-- 2024-11-21

 

 

Hopefully Bangkok Airways do something about the tired-looking interiors of their aircraft. Considering the prices they charge, they looked pretty sorry on the flights I took with them in June.