Kota Kinabalu: Thai Airways together with its subsidiary Thai Smiles launched its inaugural direct flight from Bangkok to Kota Kinabalu on March 26.Thai Airways Assistant Executive Vice President, Commercial, Wiwat Piyawiroj, said the cooperation in the opening of the Bangkok- Kota Kinabalu route between Thai Airways and Thai Smiles marked a milestone in showcasing the business model between the parent company and its affiliate. "By providing this service, Thai Airways will be the distributor and marketer for the distribution of tickets and Thai Smiles will be the flight operator.
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"This type of business will take place on several international routes that are due to launch this year. And we strongly believe that this cooperation will bring comfort to passengers travelling to various cities. In particular, the direct Kota Kinabalu route will bring about sustainable and profitable growth for both airlines."Acting CEO of Thai Smiles, Captain Woranate Laprabang, revealed that Thai Smiles, a subsidiary of Thai Airways, the national carrier, was very proud to open the new route to Kota Kinabalu.
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"It is acclaimed to be a major tourist destination of Asean region in the extent of the exuberance of nature. The ticket will be sold by Thai Airways while the flight will be operated by Thai Smiles.
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"The opening of this new route to Kota Kinabalu is considered one of the strategic priorities for us in the Asean region. Thai Airways and Thai Smiles will expand growth in order to develop more international network of routes extensively. "Furthermore, we are committed to increasing our customers' choice to have a chance to travel to new destinations. Of course, we are confident that our reputation for excellent service will make both airlines the market leader in the near future." The Bangkok-Kota Kinabalu flight is open daily. There are two types of services including "Premium Economy Class" or "Smile PLUS Class" and "Smile Class" are offered for more comfortable space. Passengers in both classes will receive a baggage allowance up to 30 kilograms and 20 kilograms, respectively. For passengers traveling in the Premium Economy Class, priority will be given to their luggage. The Airbus A320-200 airliner equipped with full facilities is in service for passengers to enjoy a superior flight experience. Foods and drinks are specially selected for the passengers. In addition, for adventurous passengers with lots of baggage, the airline also allows 10 kg weight from normal weight for climbing equipment and diving equipment. Those interested can obtain a ticket at a starting price of 3,435 baht (RM440+) per trip (all inclusive) and earn points with Royal Orchid Plus.Tourism Malaysia's Thailand office Director Abdul Harris Hardy said this year Tourism Malaysia aims to attract 1.75 million Thai tourists to experience Malaysia. From January to October 2016, Malaysia welcomed 1.47 million Thai tourists, an increase of 34.4 per cent from 1.09 million in 2015. The number of Thai tourists makes up the highest total number of tourists visiting Malaysia. "The potential of Kota Kinabalu tourism along with comfortable journey by Thai Airways and Thai Smiles will certainly increase the number of tourists from Thailand to Sabah."Sabah Tourism Board Chairman Datuk Joniston Bangkuai congratulated Thai Airways and Thai Smiles for their expansion of network and the choice of Kota Kinabalu as the second Malaysian destination after Penang. "This is a timely and welcome addition to our network of international flights into Kota Kinabalu International Airport. Opening up the Thai market is important for Sabah - we look forward to receiving young Thai nationals who love adventure, diving and the variety of food we have to offer, as well as the expats who are looking for new family destinations. Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express’s Telegram channel.
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