Bangkok Airways is looking to expand its fleet and network over the next year, ahead of the impending launch of Thai Lion Air, which will increase competition in the Thai market.
Unlike Thai Lion Air – which will operates under a low-cost model – Bangkok Airways is a full-service carrier, and is owned independently.
According to a report by the Centre for Aviation (CAPA), the carrier intends to add five A320 family aircraft by the end of next year. It is also aiming to place orders for a new generation of ATR and narrow-body aircraft.
Thai Lion Air will initially sport a fleet of two Boeing 737-900ERs, but will add another eight later in the year. Operating out of Bangkok Don Mueang, the airline will first fly to three destinations: Chiang Mai, Kuala Lumpur and Jakarta (see here).
Having achieved profitability for the last four consecutive years, Bangkok Airways serves nine domestic and 14 international destinations. Its fleet currently consists of 15 A320 family aircraft and eight ATR 72-500 turboprops.
For more information, visit www.bangkokair.com
Clement Huang
