IATA: Unfair to penalise Thai airlines

Speaking at a press conference during the World Travel and Tourism Council Global Summit in Spain, Tyler said the ban imposed on Thai airlines by some countries on new charters and routes was “confusing”, as the airlines were not entirely at fault.
“Both Thai Airways and Bangkok Air are members of IATA, which met international safety standards.
“It is important for governments to provide adequate, thorough regulatory regimes to ensure aviation safety,” Tyler said.
Japan, South Korea and China have banned or limited charter flights from Thailand over safety concerns after negotiators from this country’s Civil Aviation Department failed to persuade officials in those countries to drop the restrictions completely.
Besides Thai Airways International, airlines affected by the ban were Asia Atlantic, NokScoot, Jet Asia, Asian Air and Thai AirAsia X.
Japan and South Korea did ease their restrictions somewhat. The six affected Thai airlines were allowed to operate charter flights to Japan for a “grace period” from April 11 to May 31, while Jet Asia received approval from South Korea to fly until mid-April.
On another matter, Tyler said the benefits from lower aviation-fuel prices had been offset by a stronger US dollar.
The stronger dollar affects operational costs as well. Spare parts are usually priced in US dollars, as are various supply contracts, he said.