Thai AirAsia targets 26% passenger growth
Play
Asia Aviation, the operator of Thai AirAsia low-cost airline, sets to grow its passenger and revenue by 26 per cent this year despite political turbulence.
The number of passengers is expected to rise from 10.5 million last year to 13.3 million, said Tassapon Bijleveld, the chief executive officer.
He said that the political turbulence has caused a slight impact on the operations. However, 70 per cent of foreign passengers are repeat travellers who have been familiar with the situation in Thailand. These travellers have opted to fly directly to provincial destinations, to avoid Bangkok.
The cabin factor in the first quarter is expected to fall from 86 per cent last year to 84 per cent. The average cabin factor is expected to be 83 per cent for the entire year, because of the delivery of 8 more aircraft which would increase the seat capacity by 30 per cent.
"Rather, we're more worried about the jet fuel price, which is uncontrollable," he told reporters today.
